Boko Haram: Reps Demand Construction Of Roads Around Sambisa Forest, Give Reason

The House of Representatives on Tuesday called on the federal government to construct roads that would link communities located on the fringes of Sambisa Forest, which are frequently attacked by Boko Haram insurgents.

AllNews reports that although Sambisa Forest is known as a stronghold of Boko Haram insurgents, the lawmakers believe that such roads will open up areas surrounding the forest and curb the incessant attacks launched on residents by the terrorists.

The resolution of the Green Chamber was sequel to a motion moved by Haruna Mshelia (APC, Borno) at the plenary, who had pointed out that several communities located on the fringes of Sambisa Forest are affected.

He listed the affected communities to include: Tashan Allade, Kirmi, Garbwala, Debiro, Tarfa, Mandiragraw, Harang, Ngulde, Ngohi, Mbula Kudughe, Chanchandana, Lehu, Askira, Bigibigi, and Garkida.

Mshelia said the affected communities are situated in the very fertile region of Hawul, Askira/Uba, Biu and Gombi Local Government Areas of Borno State and do not have interconnected rural roads linking one other.

He pointed out that the absence of roads have made it difficult for security agencies to navigate the areas in pursuit of the insurgents whenever they attack the residents.

The lawmaker further disclosed that the roads would also boost the agricultural output of residents, many of whom are farmers.

He noted that the rural roads connecting these communities that are needed to be opened up are the Tashan Allade Kirmi – Garbwala – Debiro – Tarfa – Mandiragraw road; the Kirmi – Harang – Ngulde – Ngohi – Mbula Kudughe – Chanchandana – Lehu to Askira and the Ngohi – Bigibigi to Garkida Roads.

“Due to the proximity of these communities to the infamous Sambisa Forest, the lack of these basic infrastructure means that whenever Boko Haram attacks, even Security Forces find it difficult to easily navigate the area in pursuit of the insurgents,” the Reps member said.

The House subsequently adopted the motion, urging the North–East Development Commission to consult with relevant government agencies and ministries to “as a matter of urgency” commence the construction of the road.