TheCable

Hundreds of civilians are fleeing Maiduguri, the capital of Borno State, as fears grow that Boko Haram is moving close to the city, Reuters reports.

Boko Haram fighters, using captured military vehicles and weapons, have taken towns and villages to the north, east and south of Maiduguri in the last few weeks.

With the city encircled, residents fear it would be the next port of call for the insurgents who captured Bama, 70 kilometres away, on Monday despite denials by military authorities.

Witnesses report a growing humanitarian crisis in the north-east following advancement by Boko Haram.

TheCable had reported fears by international security experts that the insurgents were about to gain a significant part of Nigeria’s territory in order to declare an Islamic State, similar to what is happening in Iraq.

Travellers packed bus stations in Maiduguri seeking transport towards Damaturu in neighboring Yobe State, the only safe exit route out.

“I’m leaving now because people keep saying Boko Haram may attack Maiduguri anytime and it is possible,” said Saka Lawal, a car mechanic who was leaving with his wife and two children.

Civil servants, traders and even the families of soldiers were among those moving out, residents said.