Governor Babagana Umara Zulum has praised the Nigerian military and allied security groups for the successful operation that led to the death of a high-ranking ISWAP commander, Abu Fatima, in Aleru village, Kukawa Local Government Area of Borno State. The operation, carried out by military personnel, Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) members, hunters, and vigilantes, also claimed the lives of two of the commander’s associates.
Zulum offered his commendation during a visit to communities in northern Borno as part of his assessment tour following renewed attacks by Boko Haram. He met with troops and local security groups in Baga, Kukawa, and Cross Kauwa to boost morale, hear their concerns, and discuss solutions to ongoing challenges in the region.
He reminded reporters of the recent operation that neutralized Abu Fatima and his lieutenants. According to sources, the commander was captured alive but later died from heavy bleeding. Abu Fatima was reportedly on the Nigerian military’s most wanted list, with a ₦100 million bounty placed on him. He was believed to be behind several violent attacks in the Baga axis and surrounding areas.
While acknowledging that some soldiers were recently lost in the fight, Governor Zulum stressed the importance of standing by the troops and reinforcing their determination to keep the region safe. He expressed condolences and gratitude for their bravery.
