Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum has alleged that some Nigerian politicians and members of the armed forces are acting as informants and collaborators for Boko Haram insurgents. Zulum made this revelation during an interview on News Central’s Breakfast Central, emphasizing the need to strengthen the state’s intelligence network to combat these saboteurs.

“We have informants and collaborators within the Nigerian armed forces, among politicians, and within the communities. What we shall do is to strengthen our intelligence and deal with them ruthlessly,” he stated. He expressed confidence that, without politicizing insecurity, substantial progress could be made in six months.

Regarding surrendered insurgents, Zulum noted that while not all have fully reformed, the vast majority are positively contributing to society. “I cannot completely say that 100% of those who have surrendered are doing the right thing, but over 99% are doing well and are not participating in ongoing terrorism,” he said.

The governor highlighted the importance of combining kinetic and non-kinetic strategies in addressing insurgency, emphasizing that military force alone would not suffice. He explained that non-kinetic measures, including social, political, and economic approaches, are essential for effective conflict resolution.

Zulum acknowledged the challenges faced by the military, citing a lack of equipment and technological disadvantages against insurgents. He praised the Nigerian military’s support for peace-building efforts and urged President Bola Tinubu to prioritize ground-level intelligence and professional military advice.

“The forest guard shall be provided immediately. The President needs to listen to those who can differentiate their left from their right. We should not politicize insecurity,” he asserted.

Zulum’s remarks underscore the complexities of Nigeria’s fight against Boko Haram and the necessity for a comprehensive strategy that includes community engagement and support for former insurgents.