Christian elders in Borno and Adamawa call on the federal government to station forest guards at Sambisa.

By John Alechenu

ABUJA — Christian elders from Borno and Adamawa states have urged the Federal Government to urgently station forest guards in Sambisa Forest, arguing that such a move is essential to dislodge terrorists and restore security in the North‑East.

The elders made the appeal in Abuja on Monday, following a three‑day fasting and prayer session organized by Marghi leaders. The session sought divine intervention and the release of schoolchildren abducted in parts of Borno and Oyo states.

They specifically called on authorities to “flood Sambisa Forest with forest guards now” to curb the persistent insurgent activities that threaten vulnerable communities.

Between 42 and 51 children—mostly toddlers and primary‑school pupils—were reportedly abducted by suspected Boko Haram insurgents in Mussa town, covering the Mussa, Birri and Shikarkir areas of Askira/Uba Local Government Area of Borno State on 15 May 2026.

On the same day, bandits attacked Ahoro‑Esinele and surrounding communities in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, abducting 46 persons, including pupils, secondary‑school students and a toddler.

Elder Gambo Kadir, spokesman for the Marghi Community in Abuja, said that insecurity in affected communities is far more widespread than reported, claiming that many attacks go unreported in the media.

He noted that frontline local government areas such as Madagali, Gwoza, Askira/Uba and Chibok have continued to suffer repeated attacks for over a decade.

According to him, the recent abduction in Mussa community represents a continuation of long‑standing violence that has left residents traumatised and frustrated.

Kadir criticised what he described as the government’s approach to handling terrorism, alleging that insurgents are being rehabilitated instead of being decisively dealt with.

He also reported a fresh abduction in Kirchiga town, Borno State, shortly after the Mussa incident.

The elders called for increased military deployment to communities bordering Sambisa Forest, particularly in Madagali, Askira/Uba, Chibok and Gwoza.

They also urged the Federal Government to enhance intelligence gathering and adopt modern technology to track and rescue abducted victims, insisting that urgent action is needed to secure the release of those still in captivity.

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