Borno Attacks: “Are We Now Back to the Bad Old Days?” – Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III Queries

The Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, who is also the leader of the Muslim Ummah in Nigeria, has expressed deep concern over the resurgence of bomb attacks in Borno State, raising fears that the country may be slipping back into a period many believed was over.

The monarch voiced his concerns on Wednesday night at the Sultan’s Palace shortly after announcing the sighting of the new moon marking the end of Ramadan and declaring Friday, March 20, 2026, as Eid-el-Fitr. This was contained in a press statement issued by the Sultan’s media team on Thursday, March 19, 2026.

Speaking in his capacity as President-General of the Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs and Jama’atu Nasril Islam, the Sultan condemned the renewed wave of attacks in strong terms and called on security agencies to intensify efforts toward ending terrorism and insurgency.

He stressed that the redeployment of military and security leadership must not be routine, but should involve decisive and proactive strategies aimed at confronting terrorists at their strongholds.

According to the Chairman of the National Traditional Rulers Council of Nigeria, security operations must be result-oriented.

“Relocation of Army and other security chiefs should not be ceremonial. Take the war to the terrorists where they are. Do not wait for them to strike before defending or seeking remedies. This must be done so that, as a nation, we can achieve lasting peace,” he said.

The Sultan reiterated his condemnation of the attacks, urging the military and intelligence agencies to step up efforts in tackling insurgency decisively.

“We condemn this new wave of bomb attacks in the strongest terms and call on security agencies to intensify efforts in nipping terrorism and insurgency in the bud,” he added.

He also reaffirmed that such acts of violence are un-Islamic and should not be linked to the religion, emphasizing that Islam does not support the killing of innocent people.

“We have always condemned these acts. They are un-Islamic and must not be associated with Islam. Government must demonstrate the political will required to ensure the safety and security of all citizens, regardless of religion or ethnicity, and eliminate criminal elements across the country,” he stated.

The Sultan noted that while communities may not always identify the perpetrators, they remain committed to promoting peace, unity, and moral values, while urging the government to fulfill its responsibility of protecting lives and property.

He emphasized that decisive action is necessary to restore peace and stability nationwide.

The Sultan concluded by extending condolences to the government and people of Borno State, the Kanem-Borno Emirate, and families of victims affected by the attacks. He prayed for the repose of the deceased and wished the injured a speedy recovery.