United Nations resident and humanitarian coordinator in Nigeria, Mohamed Fall, has denounced the reported killing of dozens of civilians in Darajamal Village, Bama local government area (LGA) in Borno State, north-east Nigeria by suspected terrorists.
In a statement issued yesterday by Dr. Seyi Soremekun, of the United Nations Information Centre (UNIC) in Abuja, Fall expressed sadness over Friday’s killings even as he affirmed that “Civilians should never be a target!”
He pointed out that 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.
Fall said, “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 noted that this recent killing of civilians is yet another grim reminder of the toll of rising violent attacks and insecurity in Borno State this year. Multiple attacks against civilians have been recorded leading to the deaths of hundreds of civilians in Borno alone, he added.
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, travellers and traders.
Deadly attacks against civilians have also been recorded in neighbouring Adamawa and Yobe states with a rural health centre, grain stores and a market among targeted areas.
“I reiterate my call to parties to the conflict to protect civilians as well as their property and to adhere to international humanitarian and human rights law.
“The UN reaffirms its commitment to continue supporting people affected by conflict to complement Government efforts,” Fall said in the statement.
