Borno APC Candidate Escapes Terrorist Ambush

The All Progressives Congress governorship candidate in Borno State, Mustapha Gubio, escaped unhurt after suspected terrorists ambushed his convoy along the Kareto-Damasak highway in northern Borno.

The attack occurred at about 2:30pm on Thursday, September 3, 2026, as Gubio and members of his entourage travelled in the area during an appreciation tour of the state.

According to the police, the attackers targeted the convoy with improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and rocket-propelled grenades (RPGs).

Security forces accompanying the convoy responded to the attack and forced the assailants to retreat into the surrounding bush.

Security forces foil attack

Borno State Police Public Relations Officer, Nahum Daso, confirmed that suspected Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists carried out the attack.

Daso said the attackers were confronted by a combined team comprising police officers, soldiers, personnel of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Department of State Services, Civilian Joint Task Force and vigilante groups.

He said no life was lost among security personnel or civilians during the encounter, although the attackers may have escaped with gunshot injuries.

The Force Public Relations Officer, Ani Iniedu, also confirmed that police tactical operatives counter-engaged the attackers and subsequently cleared the route for possible secondary explosive devices.

The convoy was eventually evacuated to a secure location, with no casualties recorded among the candidate, government officials and other political stakeholders travelling with him.

Armoured vehicle damaged

Details from people familiar with the incident indicated that an armoured vehicle at the front of the convoy helped shield the security team when the attackers advanced.

The vehicle reportedly stepped on an IED and was subsequently destroyed or severely damaged.

Despite the intensity of the attack, the convoy was able to continue its journey after security operatives secured the road.

Gubio was returning from Damasak

Gubio and his team had travelled to Damasak as part of an appreciation tour following his emergence as the APC’s consensus governorship candidate.

Vanguard reported that the convoy was returning from Damasak towards Maiduguri when it came under attack around Kareto.

The incident has again highlighted the security challenges facing political activities in Borno, where insurgent groups remain active despite sustained military and security operations.

The attack also comes as political parties begin preparations for the 2027 general elections, with Borno among the states where security concerns remain a major issue for politicians and residents.

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