Borno Governor: Boko Haram conflict is not a religious crisis, it targets all citizens
The governor of Borno State, Babagana Zulum, has emphasised that the ongoing conflict involving Boko Haram is not a religious crisis, contrary to how some have described it. Speaking on Monday during a gathering with both Muslim and Christian religious leaders, he called for unity and inter-faith solidarity in the state.
Zulum argued that the insurgency is “an assault on our civilisation, humanity, and all that we hold dear, irrespective of creed,” and urged all to reject narratives that seek to cast the security situation as a clash between religions.
Highlighting the indiscriminate nature of the attacks, he noted that both Muslims and Christians have been victims, lives lost, people displaced, mosques and churches destroyed without distinction.
Though he acknowledged that “the overwhelming majority of those who have suffered death, abduction, and displacements are our Muslim brothers and sisters,” Zulum said this tragedy should bind all residents in shared grief and a united response.
He reiterated that his administration’s reconstruction, resettlement and rehabilitation efforts are guided by fairness, equity, and inclusivity. As evidence, he said the government has already rebuilt 45 Christian worship centres destroyed during the insurgency, including churches in areas such as Hawul, Gwoza, Askira-Uba and Chibok.
Zulum urged religious leaders to continue preaching tolerance, reconciliation and mutual respect, stressing that peaceful coexistence between different faith communities is fundamental to the future of Borno State.
He also appealed to the international community to support efforts aimed at addressing the root causes of the insurgency, poverty, illiteracy, hunger, rather than framing the conflict in religious terms.