The United Nations has issued a strong condemnation of the recent attacks by suspected Boko Haram insurgents in Dumba community, Kukawa Local Government Area of Borno State, Nigeria, where at least 40 civilians were killed.
The UN Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, Mohamed Fall, expressed horror at the atrocities targeted at fishermen and farmers in the region, stating that several individuals remain missing following the attack on January 12.
Fall emphasized the urgent need for justice, urging that the perpetrators be identified and held accountable in accordance with national and international human rights laws.
The attack, which has been attributed to the Islamic State of West African Province (ISWAP), underscores the persistent dangers faced by civilians in the conflict-ridden areas of Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe states.
“I am horrified by the recent mass killing of fishermen and farmers in Kukawa,” Fall stated. “Several people remain missing following the attack, which occurred on January 12.
” He also extended his condolences to the bereaved families and wished the injured a swift recovery.
The frequency of such attacks continues to be a grave concern. Reflecting on incidents in 2024, Fall highlighted the February abduction of hundreds of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in Ngala Local Government Area as they ventured beyond trenches for firewood. In June, Gwoza Local Government Area witnessed deadly suicide bombings that claimed civilian lives. Similarly, in July, suspected insurgents attacked farmers in the Firgi community, killing IDPs and abducting women and girls. September saw the killing of more than 100 men and boys in an attack on Mafa, Tarmuwa Local Government Area, Yobe State.
The Coordinator also pointed to violent incidents in areas such as Dikwa, Logomane, Ngala, and Pulka, which have compounded the already precarious situation for civilians. The growing threat posed by non-state armed groups (NSAGs) in northeastern Nigeria is deeply concerning, with attacks often targeting vulnerable populations such as farmers, fishermen, and displaced persons.
In his statement, Fall reaffirmed the United Nations’ commitment to supporting the affected communities in collaboration with the Nigerian government. He called for enhanced security measures to protect civilians and prevent further loss of life. “The armed actors who perpetrated these attacks must be identified and brought to account,” he declared.
The statement underscores the need for a coordinated response to curb the violence and provide relief to those affected. The UN remains resolute in its mission to assist the communities in distress and to advocate for peace and security in the region.
