While Governor Babagana Zulum’s bold accusations have drawn national attention to the issue of insider sabotage in the fight against Boko Haram, it is important that he goes a step further by naming those involved.
Development Diaries reports that Governor Zulum of Borno State has accused some military officers and politicians of being informants and collaborators for Boko Haram terrorists.
In a media interview, the governor vowed to deal ruthlessly with saboteurs frustrating the efforts of his administration in tackling insurgency in the state.
The problem now is, without naming and substantiating these claims with evidence, such allegations risk being dismissed as political rhetoric or creating unnecessary panic among citizens.
For real action to be taken, perpetrators must be identified and subjected to proper investigations and, where applicable, prosecution.
Shielding such individuals, whether due to political pressure or lack of concrete proof, will only embolden others within the system to continue betraying national security efforts.
If he publicly identifies the alleged collaborators, Governor Zulum would be taking a courageous and necessary step toward justice and accountability.
This would enable the relevant security and anti-corruption agencies to begin formal investigations, freeze any enabling networks, and prosecute those responsible.
It would also signal to the people of Borno and the rest of the country that his administration is committed to transparency and determined to root out betrayal, regardless of the status or position of those involved.
Furthermore, naming names will pressure the federal government to act swiftly and decisively, rather than treating the matter as just another political statement.
It would also strengthen public trust in government and security institutions, reassuring communities that their leaders are serious about restoring peace.
Silence or generalisation only serves to weaken the urgency for action and allows collaborators to remain hidden within the system.
Governor Zulum has proven to be a proactive leader in the fight against insurgency.
To maintain that reputation and secure real progress, Development Diaries calls on him to now match his words with action by handing over names and relevant intelligence to the Department of State Services (DSS), the National Intelligence Agency (NIA) and the Defence Headquarters.
The gravity of these allegations demands an immediate and coordinated response from the federal government, not only to investigate and punish those found guilty, but also to reassure Nigerians that no one is above the law.
A federal-led inquiry involving the DSS, the NIA, and DHQ is essential to ensure a thorough investigation into these claims.
Photo source: Prof Babagana Umar Zulum
