Emir Escapes from Palace as Boko Haram Storms CDS’s Town

Scores of insurgents were killed on Tuesday following their invasion of the university town of Mubi in the now troubled Adamawa State. Attempts by the insurgents to hit Vimtim, Chief of Defence Staff, Air Chief Marshal Alex Badeh’s village, were said to have been repelled by Nigerian soldiers.

Another report late last night said Boko Haram insurgents may have finally captured the town.

But the military launched a counter offensive in Bazza to retake the town. The Federal Government said Bama, Borno State’s second largest city had been retaken from the insurgents, who reportedly suffered heavy losses. It was claimed that over 50 of their men were killed.

Also, it was learnt that troops led by Gen. JS Zaruwa recaptured Bazza, one of the towns seized by Boko Haram insurgents. 

A senior military source said troops retook Bazza after a fierce battle in which soldiers killed many Boko Haram militants.

According to The Nation, in a broadcast, acting governor Umaru Fintiri said he had got the Military High Command to ensure “immediate response to halt the incursions within the shortest possible time”.

He added: “I hereby call for calm in the affected areas and that no one should panic, raise false alarm and rumours capable of further throwing innocent people into confusion.

“I passionately appeal to all citizens in Mubi and surrounding villages to remain where they are and not move out as the military and security are there are on high alert and ready to defend the area.”

Vimtim is less than five kilometers to Mubi, Adamawa State’s second largest town.

The development has led to the relocation of the Emir of Mubi, Alhaji Abubakar Isa Ahmadu, and thousands of his subjects, under heavy security, to Yola, the state capital.

According to the Defence Headquarters, in a terse statement, the troops had a fierce battle with the Boko Haram fighters in Mubi.

DHQ said: “Counter terrorism troops today carried out an attack on Insurgents in Mubi town, Adamawa State. In the fierce battle to root out the insurgents, scores of insurgents lost their lives while several others escaped with fatal gunshot wounds.

“Two officers and three soldiers who were wounded in the battle are currently receiving treatment in a military medical facility.”