Boko Haram kills 18 in ransacked Adamawa village, Fintiri vows justice

Boko-Haram terrorists and their arch-rival Islamic State of West African Province (ISWAP) have continued their rampaging killing not fewer than 18 persons, including a Catholic priest, in Adamawa State on Tuesday night.

Business Day had earlier reported how Boko Haram terrorists invaded Sheweri and Kirchinga communities in Madagali council, killing at least four people, including three soldiers and burnt down the military base in Hong Local Government Area last weekend.

The two LGAs have witnessed terror attacks in recent weeks, sparking widespread concern and calls for increased security presence in the affected areas.

The latest of such attacks reportedly occurred on Saturday when suspected Boko Haram insurgents overran the Garahamojili military camp in the Garaha district of Hong LGA.

The late-night assault, described by local sources as highly coordinated, targeted the two agrarian communities situated in Adamawa State. The area forms part of the home axis of Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri.

Madagali, a frontline local government area, has repeatedly come under insurgent attacks due to its proximity to the Sambisa Forest corridor and the volatile Nigeria-Cameroon border.

Eyewitnesses recounted that the attackers stormed the villages on Tuesday night, firing sporadically and renting the air with bullets and causing widespread panic as residents fled into nearby bushes.

Luka Butrus said he counted at least 13 bodies lying in the pool of blood. ” We slept in the bush last night, and we returned early this morning. I have counted at least 13 people, including women and children. This is inhumane, and we are worried about the latest waves of attacks in this area.

He added, “dozens of others are critically wounded due to gunshot. Many villagers fled into surrounding bushes and neighbouring settlements in a desperate bid for safety as we speak,”

Another resident explained that the attackers burnt down several houses, shops, a church, and public buildings.

“As we speak now, 18 dead bodies have been recovered so far, including the newly appointed Village Head in Kirchinga Community of Madagali LGA. Sadly, many people are still missing, and unspecified numbers are severely wounded as a result of last night’s attacks in my community.

He described chaotic scenes as women, children, and the elderly trekked long distances overnight to escape the violence. Numerous homes were left deserted as fear gripped the affected communities.

Condemning the attacks in strong terms, Ahmadu Fintiri,  Adamawa State governor, has reiterated that is administration will not surrender to fear, vowing to ensure justice for victims of recent terrorist attacks in the Madagali and Hong local government area of the state.

In a statement issued, the governor warned perpetrators to steer clear of the state, vowing that the government would not allow criminal elements to derail ongoing efforts to restore peace and stability.

“We will not let terrorists undermine our efforts to restore peace and stability,” Fintiri said. “I warn perpetrators: desist from these senseless attacks or face the full weight of our collective resolve.”

The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to defeating terrorism and safeguarding lives and property across the state. He pledged continued collaboration with security agencies to ensure that those responsible for the attacks are apprehended and brought to justice.

“We have done this before, and we’re determined to do it again,” he said, expressing confidence in the state’s ability to overcome the current security challenges.

Fintiri also sought to reassure residents of Madagali and Hong, urging them to remain calm and continue their daily activities without fear.

“We have your back. We’ll protect you and your livelihoods. Together, we’ll triumph over terrorism and build a brighter future,” he assured.

The governor commended security agencies for whair dedication and bravery in confronting criminal elements, pledging sustained government support to enhance their operations.

He further appealed to the people of Adamawa to support the government’s efforts to maintain peace, stressing that collective action is essential in overcoming terrorism.