Boko Haram Targets APC Governorship Candidate's Convoy

On Thursday evening, an explosion occurred as the convoy of an APC governorship candidate was returning to Maiduguri from a thank-you visit to Damasak, located about 190km away. Insurgents had planted landmines along the Gubio-Kareto-Damasak highway, and the police armoured vehicle leading the convoy detonated one of the explosives.

Following the blast, Boko Haram attempted to ambush the convoy, but a combined team of military, police, and members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) engaged the attackers in a fierce gunfight. The security operatives successfully repelled the ambush, preventing further damage or casualties to the main convoy, although the armoured vehicle was severely damaged.

The Gubio-Kareto-Damasak route is known for its volatility and is frequently targeted by Boko Haram insurgents. This incident highlights the ongoing security challenges faced by political figures in Borno State, reminiscent of past political violence, including the assassination of Modu Fannami Gubio in January 2011.