By AnchorNews

The All Progressives Congress governorship candidate in Borno State, Mustapha Gubio, narrowly escaped an attack by suspected terrorists on his convoy along the Kareto–Damasak highway in the northern part of the state.

The incident reportedly occurred at about 2:30pm on Thursday while Gubio and members of his team were travelling to Damasak as part of an appreciation tour across the state.

According to reports, the convoy came under attack involving an improvised explosive device and rocket-propelled grenades. Sources within the convoy described the attack as brief but potentially devastating had the security personnel accompanying the candidate failed to repel the attackers.

A source who spoke anonymously said the situation was brought under control shortly after the attack, allowing the convoy to continue its journey.

Another source said security personnel subsequently scanned and cleared the area before the convoy proceeded to its destination.

A security agent attached to the convoy disclosed that an Armoured Personnel Carrier at the front of the convoy provided cover for the security team as the attackers advanced. The APC was reportedly destroyed after triggering an IED during the encounter.

Despite the intensity of the attack, no casualty was recorded among the candidate and members of his entourage.

Confirming the incident on Friday, the Borno State Police Public Relations Officer, Nahum Daso, said the attack was carried out by suspected Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists.

Daso said the combined efforts of security agencies successfully repelled the attackers, adding that the terrorists were believed to have escaped into the surrounding area, possibly with gunshot injuries.

He also confirmed that the incident did not prevent the convoy from reaching its destination.

The Force Public Relations Officer, Ani Iniedu, also confirmed the incident in a state-by-state operational report, stating that the convoy comprised the APC governorship candidate, government officials and political stakeholders.

According to the police, tactical operatives counter-engaged the suspected terrorists and forced them to retreat into the surrounding bush before scanning and clearing the route for possible secondary explosive threats.

The candidate and other members of the entourage were subsequently moved to a secure location, with the police confirming that no casualties were recorded.

The attack comes amid continuing security challenges in parts of Borno State, where insurgent activities have remained a major concern for residents, travellers and political stakeholders.