UN Condemns Killing of 40 Civilians in Borno Insurgency Attack
The United Nations has strongly condemned the killing of 40 civilians in Dumba community, Kukawa Local Government Area of Borno State, by suspected Boko Haram insurgents.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the UN Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, Mr. Mohamed Fall, described the Jan. 12 attack targeting fishermen and farmers as horrifying.
“I am horrified by the recent mass killing of fishermen and farmers in Kukawa. Several people remain missing following the attack,” Fall said.
He emphasized the need for justice, urging that the perpetrators be held accountable in line with national and international human rights laws. Fall extended his condolences to the affected families and wished the injured a speedy recovery.
“The armed actors who perpetrated these attacks must be identified and brought to account. This attack serves as another grim reminder of the profound dangers civilians in Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe states continue to face,” he added.
Fall highlighted the increasing frequency of violent attacks on civilians in conflict zones throughout 2024, including abductions, suicide bombings, and mass killings. He recounted incidents such as the abduction of hundreds of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in Ngala in February, the killing of farmers in Gwoza in July, and the massacre of over 100 men and boys in Mafa, Yobe State, in September.
Other affected areas include Dikwa, Logomane, Ngala, and Pulka in Borno State.
Reiterating the UN’s commitment to supporting affected communities, Fall called for enhanced security measures to protect civilians.
“We call on all parties to the conflict to adhere to their obligations under international humanitarian law to safeguard civilians. The UN continues to provide humanitarian assistance to people affected by insurgency in Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe states, complementing efforts by the Nigerian government,” Fall stated.
The attack underscores the persistent security challenges faced by residents of the region amid ongoing insurgency.
