The convoy of Borno state APC governorship candidate Mustapha Gubio came under attack from suspected Boko Haram fighters Thursday while travelling through northern Borno.
The attack happened around 2:30 p.m. near Kareto along the Gubio-Kareto-Damasak road, according to security sources.
Gubio and his team were reportedly returning from a thank-you visit to Damasak after his emergence as the APC’s consensus candidate.
Police said the attackers used an improvised explosive device and rocket-propelled grenades against the convoy.
Security personnel fought back and forced the attackers to retreat into nearby bushes.
Police Force Public Relations Officer Ani Iniedu said tactical operatives “successfully counter-engaged suspected terrorists” and later searched the area for possible secondary explosives.
“The convoy, conveying a gubernatorial aspirant, government officials and political stakeholders, was safely evacuated to a secure location with no casualties recorded among members of the entourage,” Iniedu said.
An insider who was part of the convoy described the incident as “a terrifying moment,” saying the terrorists fired several RPGs and gunshots.
“Luckily, our security agencies repelled the attacks,” the source said, adding that some police armoured vehicles were damaged but “there was no casualty.”
Gubio was travelling to Mobbar Local Government Area, where Damasak is located, as part of efforts to thank APC supporters following his selection as the party’s candidate.
The attack comes as Borno continues to face security challenges linked to Boko Haram and other insurgent groups.
On the same day, troops reported recovering the bodies of five Boko Haram/ISWAP fighters following a separate failed attack in Kukawa Local Government Area.
Authorities have not reported any arrest in connection with the convoy attack.
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