Insecurity: Chibok Community Seeks Military Bases

The Kibaku Area Development Association (KADA), also known as the Chibok community, has urged the federal government to establish permanent military bases in the Chibok following renewed killings and persistent insurgent attacks.

The group said that since November 30, 2012, no fewer than 432 people had been killed in over 115 attacks across Kibaku land, with several communities displaced.

Speaking at a press conference in Abuja on Thursday, the association’s National President, Nkeki Mutah, decried what he described as systematic attacks on the people.

“From 30th November 2012 to date, over 432 people have been killed resulting from more than 115 attacks on Chibok (Kibaku) land,” Mutah said.

He lamented that more than half of the towns and villages had been destroyed, leaving residents unable to access or cultivate their farmlands.

“More than half of our communities have been wiped out, while displaced residents cannot return to their farms. It is evident that Boko Haram continues to target our people,” he added.

Mutah called on the Federal Government to urgently establish permanent military and joint security formations in strategic border communities linking Chibok, Damboa and Askira-Uba Local Government Areas.

He listed the affected areas as Kautikari, Gatamwarwa, Kuburmbula, Korongilim/Njilang and Shikarkir.

“We therefore plead once again for special protection from authorities at all levels,” he said.

The association also called for the deployment of more troops to curb the unrelenting attacks and restore normalcy in the affected communities.

It further appealed for support for trained community youths, noting that they required equipment to assist security agencies in safeguarding lives and property.

“Our youths who received security vigilance training need the necessary tools to complement ongoing efforts by security operatives,” Mutah stated.

He also urged governments, development partners and humanitarian organisations to provide urgent relief materials to displaced persons and ensure access for aid delivery.

“The government should open up Chibok to humanitarian organisations to deliver essential support directly to displaced residents,” he said.

Giving an account of recent attacks, Mutah disclosed that the Kautikari community was invaded, leaving 11 persons dead, including a vigilante commander.

“They were not mere statistics; they were fathers, sons and defenders of their community,” he said.

He added that separate attacks on Kauthlama and Kwople communities led to further deaths, destruction of churches and homes, and displacement of residents.

The association also raised concern over the movement of suspected insurgents through Kwihuma, warning of possible fresh attacks.

While commending the military, police and vigilante groups for their sacrifices, Mutah urged the authorities to intensify efforts to secure the affected communities.

“We appreciate the gallant efforts of our security personnel who continue to risk their lives to defend our people,” he added.