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Fear has gripped residents of Dugwaba and surrounding communities in Hong Local Government Area of Adamawa State following fresh gunfire believed to be linked to Boko Haram insurgents, even as Nigerian troops intensify security operations in the area.
News Central gathered that although security had improved in parts of Hong LGA in recent months, suspected insurgents were able to infiltrate the Dugwaba axis, firing sporadic gunshots before retreating when soldiers responded.
Residents Fear Possible Local Complicity
Despite the swift response from troops, the assailants reportedly disappeared into nearby terrain, heightening anxiety among villagers who say the attacks have become an unsettling pattern. Amid the recurring attacks, some residents have begun quietly raising concerns that elements within the local leadership may have knowledge of the insurgents’ activities.
Several community members who spoke to News Central on condition of anonymity alleged that the District Head of Dugwaba, Simon Buba Yakubu, has long been the subject of suspicion within the community.
Many residents, however, say fear has prevented anyone from speaking publicly. According to locals, a previous attempt to report alleged links to insurgents led to the arrest of two individuals said to be connected to the district head by a special forces unit. However, the suspects were later released.
The special forces operation was led by Brigadier General Dzarma Kennedy Zirkushu, commander of the 28 Task Force Brigade. Zirkushu was later killed in action on November 13, 2021, when ISWAP terrorists ambushed his convoy while he was travelling to reinforce troops in Askira Uba, Borno State. Four soldiers, including the general, died in the attack.
Residents claim the suspects arrested during the earlier operation were released shortly after Zirkushu’s death.
News Central could not independently verify the allegations against the district head. Community representatives associated with his office have instead called for increased military presence in the area to protect residents from insurgent attacks.
Communities Devastated by Repeated Attacks
Dugwaba and neighbouring communities, including Kopre, Zah, Kinging, Mubang and Dabna, have suffered repeated attacks in recent years, forcing many residents to flee their homes.
Local sources estimate that about 40 people from Dugwaba remained in Boko Haram captivity as of late 2025, while large numbers of residents have become internally displaced.
The communities lie within a corridor close to areas historically used by insurgents operating near the Sambisa Forest.
Fresh Concerns Over Electoral Exercise
Security concerns have also affected preparations for the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) ward registration exercise scheduled between March 16 and March 27, 2026.
Residents said they were informed that the exercise would no longer take place in Garaha following a recent attack on a military camp in the area. Instead, participants are expected to travel to Hong to complete their registration. Some community members say the decision risks further marginalising already vulnerable populations.
As security forces continue operations in the area, residents say fear remains high, with many worried that insurgents may strike again. For now, villagers say they are relying on the presence of soldiers and hoping that authorities will investigate the allegations circulating within the community while strengthening security across the region.
ISWAP claimed responsibility for a recent attack on a temporary camp of the Nigerian Army’s 21 Special Armoured Brigade in the Sambisa Forest, Borno State. The terrorists targeted the brigade’s forward position during recent military operations in the area. The attack claimed dozens of soldiers ambushed the troops in the forested area.
