Suspected Boko Haram militants attack Yobe governor's convoy, resulting in the death of two policemen and injuries to others.

The convoy of Yobe State Governor, Alhaji Mai Mala Buni, was ambushed by Boko Haram terrorists on Saturday, resulting in the death of two policemen and the injury of six other security personnel.

The incident occurred on the highway between Beneshiekh and Mainok, less than sixty kilometres away from Damaturu, the state capital, after the governor attended the 24th convocation of the University of Maiduguri, Borno State.

A source who was part of the entourage but did not want to be named said that the attackers fired at the convoy from both sides of the road, aiming at the pilot.

“We barely escaped with our lives today. The convoy was attacked after leaving Maiduguri around 6.00 pm,” he said.

According to further investigation from sources, “the troops leading the convoy with MRAP, a gun truck, and another vehicle conveying the police and DSS were the main targets of the terrorists.

“The troops fought back with heavy fire, forcing the terrorists to retreat. Sadly, one police officer died on the spot, while another one succumbed to his injuries later. Two soldiers, a driver and four policemen were also wounded.

“The number of casualties on the side of the terrorists was not confirmed at the time of this report.

“The security operatives made it safely to Damaturu, while the wounded personnel and the driver were taken to a hospital for treatment.” sources said.

Governor Buni was not in the convoy when the attack happened, as he had travelled to Abuja for an official function.

This is the first time the convoy of the Yobe State governor has been attacked since the outbreak of the Boko Haram insurgency 12 years ago.

Meanwhile, the Director General of Media and Press Affairs to Governor Buni, Mohammed Mamman, confirmed the incident in an interview but said that only three security personnel were injured, and that they were recovering well. He also said that the convoy reached their destination successfully.