At least eight major weekly markets in Yobe East Senatorial District have reportedly been shut down following renewed attacks by suspected Boko Haram insurgents in parts of the region.
An investigation by Channels Television revealed that commercial activities were suspended last week at Bumsa Market in Gulani Local Government Area, as well as at Goniri, Gujba, and Katarko markets in Gujba Local Government Area. Similarly, business was halted at Katarko Thursday Market and Kukareta Tuesday Market in Damaturu LGA, alongside the popular Geidam Wednesday Market in Geidam LGA.
However, in a swift clarification, the Yobe State Government stated that only three markets—Katarko, Kukareta, and Buni Yadi—had been officially shut down for what it described as “operational reasons.”
In a statement issued by Brigadier General Dahiru Abdulsalam (Rtd), Security Adviser to Governor Mai Mala Buni, the government explained that the temporary closure was part of proactive measures to consolidate gains in the ongoing counter-insurgency campaign across the state.
> “This is to enable some proactive engagements and consolidate the successes recorded in the ongoing counter-insurgency operation in the state,” the statement read in part.
“This temporary measure became necessary to achieve some set targets to improve the security situation in the affected areas and the state in general.”
Brigadier General Abdulsalam appealed for public understanding and cooperation, assuring residents that efforts are being intensified to hasten operations and minimise the impact of the market closures on local communities.
The move comes just days after a deadly incident in which an improvised explosive device (IED) detonated along the Katarko-Goniri road, killing four people and leaving 21 others injured. The renewed wave of insurgent attacks has raised concerns about security in the region, particularly as communities rely heavily on these markets for trade and livelihood.
Authorities reaffirmed their commitment to restoring peace and resuming economic activities as swiftly as possible.
