DAMATURU- The Yobe Government says it has made adequate security arrangements for the forthcoming North-East Governors’ Forum scheduled to hold in Damaturu between April 31 and May 1.
The Deputy Governor, Alhaji Idi Gubana, disclosed this on Monday while presiding over the State Security Council meeting in Damaturu.
Gubana said the meeting was convened to ensure that all security measures were put in place to guarantee secure environment in view of high-profile visitors expected at the event.
“We are here today to ensure all hands are on deck for the smooth hosting of the North-East Governors’ Forum.
“We want to maintain the stability we have enjoyed; our visitors must come in peace and leave in peace, therefore, we cannot afford to take security for granted,” he said.
Gubana emphasised that the essence of the meeting was to review security briefings and strategise on the way forward to safeguard lives and property before, during, and after the forum.
In the same vein, the Commissioner of Police in the state, Mr Emmanuel Ado, said a review of the security situation over the past month had been carried out.
He noted that the council observed that there had been increased influx of traders into the state for commercial activities, indicating a peaceful coexistence among various people
“However, we are not resting on our oars, ” he said.
According to him, the council reviewed certain incidents of security breaches and mapped out strategies to stem the tide of insecurity in the state before, during and after the event.
“We have redoubled efforts to enhance surveillance and ensure public safety,” he said.
The commissioner assured residents and visitors that all entry points into Damaturu, particularly the Potiskum-Damaturu road, were safe and well secured by security personnel.
“All participants coming from Borno, Bauchi, Gombe, Taraba and Adamawa states are assured of their safety.
“The military, police, civil defence and JTF have been fully mobilised to secure all access routes, including the Damaturu airport Road up to Gashua,” Ado said.
He reiterated that the security architecture around the city had been strengthened to ensure the safety of all residents and visitors during the forum.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the North-East Governors’ Forum is expected to attract high-level dignitaries and stakeholders from across the region. (NAN)
