Borno State Governor, Babagana Umara Zulum, has inaugurated a high-powered committee for the resettlement of Internally Displaced Persons back to Baga.
The Governor recalled that he was in Baga on the assessment of damages caused d by Boko Haram insurgents on the town, and to equally have an interface with the military command in charge of Baga General area to see the possibilities of returning people back.
“Following my visit to Baga on the 5th of August 2020 on an inspection tour to have interface with the military to see things for myself, a formal letter was sent to the Chief of Army Staff notifying him of the desire for the people to relocate to Baga.
“The letter received the blessing of the military, hence we have taken up steps to relocate citizenry back to their ancestral homes. In view of the foregoing, Borno State Government constituted a high-powered committee comprising top Government functionaries both from the federal and state government, the armed forces, CJTF, hunters, and traditional rulers.” Zulum said.
Governor Babagana Umara Zulum also announced during the inauguration that the Chief Army Staff has replied a letter sent by the Borno State Government seeking military clearance for the return of IDPs.
“You may recall that the state government have earlier written to the Nigerian Army, and have fixed 26th of September as a possible return date of our people to Baga. I am pleased to inform you that the Chief of Army Staff has replied that it is possible for the Government of Borno State to relocate people back to Baga on the 26th of September 2020.” Zulum said.
He added “Arising from this decision, we immediately swang into action by constituting this committee. I therefore urge you to work assiduously with a view to actualization of the return of people back to Baga on the 26th of September. You should work round the clock. This administration will not hesitate to release all the necessary funds required for the implementation of this noble objectives.”
The committee which will be chaired by the Arthony General and Commissioner of Justice, Barr. Kaka Shehu Lawan has the following terms of reference:
1. To commence immediate reconstruction and rehabilitation work in Baga
2. To undertake palliative repairs of Monguno — Cross — Baga road in collaboration with the Nigerian military.
3. To put in place all requirements that will ensure safety of lives and properties on return.
4. To facilitate the establishment of civil authorities on ground.
5. To identify IDPs from Baga with a view to resettling them back.
6. Any other matter incidental to the smooth return and safety of lives and properties.
Governor Zulum have expressed appreciation to all the security establishment for their efforts in the fight against insurgency in Borno State.
“Let me use this medium to thank the Chiefs of Army, Air and Naval Staffs, the Inspector General of Police, the Director General of DSS, Commandant General of NSCDC and all heads of the security agencies in Borno State for their continuous support and collaboration. Borno State is ever ready to partner with you in bringing peace to the state and protecting the lives, and properties of our people.” Zulum said.
