Zulum has donated N50m to the family of Lt. Col. killed by Boko Haram in Borno.
Glamtush reports that Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum has donated N50 million to the family of the late Lt. Col. OC Okolo, who was killed during a Boko Haram attack at Mandaragirau in Biu Local Government Area of Borno State on February 16.
The governor’s spokesman, Dauda Illiya, disclosed this in a statement on Saturday.
He said Zulum reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting the families of officers and men who paid the ultimate price in defence of the nation.
He also assured that he would continue to visit the families of other personnel killed or declared missing in action in the ongoing military operations.
The governor, who was represented by his special adviser on security, Brig. Gen. Abdullahi Sabi Ishaq (retd.) made the donation at a service held in Obinofia Ndiuno, Ezeagu Local Government Area of Enugu State, on April 10.
According to Illiya, the cash donation was presented on behalf of the Borno State Government as part of Zulum’s sustained support to families of fallen heroes and those wounded in action in the ongoing counter-insurgency efforts.
He said Zulum, on behalf of the government and people of Borno State, extended his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family.
“My heartfelt condolences to the immediate family, friends and colleagues of Lt. Col. Okolo on his painful demise,” Zulum said.
“Lt. Col. OC Okolo was a gallant, dedicated, and committed officer of the nation whose contributions will not be forgotten.”
He prayed for the repose of the soul of the deceased and for God to grant his family the strength and fortitude to bear the painful loss.
Speaking on behalf of the family, Prof. Stanley Okolo expressed deep appreciation to Zulum for the compassion and solidarity shown.
“The family members were particularly touched by this donation of N50m and the delegations sent from Maiduguri to attend the funeral service despite the short notice,” Stanley stated.
He also commended the Chief of Army Staff and the General Officer Commanding, 82 Division, for sending representatives.
The funeral service was attended by the representative of the Chief of Army Staff, Brig. Gen. G.A. Suru; the Task Force Commander, 25 Brigade, Brig. Gen. I.P. Omoke, who represented the Theatre Commander of Operation HADIN KAI; members of NAOWA; and members of the host community.
