Civilians Flee As ISWAP Attack Borno Military Base

Civilians Flee As ISWAP Attack Borno Military Base
ISWAP fighters
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Suspected fighters of the Islamic State of West Africa Province (ISWAP) on Saturday night engaged Nigerian troops stationed at a military base in Askira/Uba Local Government Area of Borno State in a bloody gun duel forcing civilians in the area to flee.

Some civilians who spoke to newsmen said they sighted the ISWAP fighters in a long convoy of gun trucks along Ngude axis towards Askira, early Saturday morning.

The civilians claimed they reported the movement of the terrorists to security forces but no action was taken before the deadly group stormed Askira town hours later.

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The Deputy Speaker of Borno House Assembly, Engr Abdullahi Musa Askira, while confirming the attacks told newsmen that the insurgents and troops are currently exchanging gunfire.

‘Yes, ISWAP is currently attacking Askira town. I was reliably informed that our troops are fighting them, but the residents are in the bush.

‘My people told me that the insurgents came with about 16 gun trucks and there is confusion in the whole town now,’ Engr. Askira said.

A member of civilians JTF, Yakubu Luka, said immediately the attackers stormed the town, they went to the military base.

‘We are expecting a reinforcement from the nearby community, as I am speaking with you heavy gunfire is ongoing.’

‘We are appealing to the authorities to send fighter jets to support the ground soldiers. We are outnumbered; we only have five gun trucks with us.’ Yakubu submitted.

 

AFRICA DAILY NEWS, NEW YORK

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