UN condemns killings of 63 villagers in Borno

…as Zulum sympathises with families of victims

The United Nations (UN) has condemned the killing of 63 people, including soldiers in Bama Local Government Area of Borno State by Boko Haram terrorists.

BusinessDay had earlier reported how more than 50 people were killed in Darul Jamal village only on Friday night in Bama Local Government Area of the State.

In a statement released on Sunday, Mohamed Fall, the UN Humanitarian Coordinator, asked the Nigerian Authorities to arrest the perpetrators of the attack.

“I am deeply appalled and saddened by Friday’s reported killing of dozens of civilians in Darajamal Village, Bama Local Government Area (LGA), in Borno State in north-east Nigeria. Civilians should never be a target!

“Preliminary reports indicate that more than 50 civilians were killed when suspected members of a non-state armed group (NSAG) attacked Darajamal on the evening of 5 September. An unknown number of people were also allegedly abducted, with others fleeing with injuries.

“At least 28 houses were also reportedly burned during the attack. The number of casualties is expected to change as more information becomes available.

“On behalf of the United Nations in Nigeria, I convey my heartfelt condolences to the families of those killed and those affected, and to the Government and the people of Borno State and wish the injured a speedy recovery.

“I call on security authorities to apprehend the perpetrators of this heinous attack and swiftly bring them to justice. I also call for the immediate release of all those abducted”, he said.

The statement issued by Fall also noted that the recent killing of civilians was yet another grim reminder of the toll of rising violent attacks and insecurity in Borno State this year.

BusinessDay notes that multiple attacks against civilians have been recorded, leading to the deaths of hundreds of civilians in Borno alone. The attacks, ranging from targeted attacks on communities to internally displaced persons (IDP) camps, using improvised explosive devices, suicide bombings and other tactics have targeted civilians including farmers, fishermen, travelers and traders.

Meanwhile, Governor Babagana Zulum has confirmed 63 Borno State residents killed by Boko Haram insurgents.

Governor Zulum, who visited Darajamal, a Community in Bama, to condole with families of the 63 people killed by Boko Haram insurgents on Friday night, met with the community leaders and consoled the bereaved families. He expressed grief and condemned the brutal attack in strongest terms.

The victims comprised five soldiers and about 58 civilians that were earlier displaced by the insurgents but had been resettled in Darajamal.

Speaking to newsmen, the governor said, “We are here to commiserate with the people of Darajamal over what happened last night that has claimed the lives of many people. It is very sad. This community was settled a few months ago and they go about their normal activities, but unfortunately, they experienced Boko Haram attack last night. Our visit is to commiserate with them and build their resilience.”

On the casualties, the governor said, “at this moment we have confirmed that 63 people lost their lives, both civilians and military, although the civilian casualties are more. Close to about 60 civilians and 5 soldiers lost their lives.”