The United Nations has stated that at least 110 farmers were brutally murdered by Boko Haram on Saturday.
Boko Haram terrorists who arrived at a farm in Borno state have killed at least, 110 farmers, the United Nations humanitarian coordinator has said.
The attack took place at a rice farm in Jere Local Government Area.
However, residents said those dead were at least 43.
President Muhammadu Buhari who condemned the attack in a Saturday night statement did not speak on the casualty figure.
The victims were buried on Sunday with residents saying many others are yet to be accounted for.
On Sunday, the UN resident coordinator in Nigeria, Edward Kallon, said the death toll from the attack could be as high as 110.
“I am outraged and horrified by the gruesome attack against civilians carried out by non-state armed groups in villages near Borno State capital Maiduguri. At least 110 civilians were ruthlessly killed and many others were wounded in this attack,” Mr Kallon said.
“In early afternoon of 28 November, armed men on motorcycles led a brutal attack on civilian men and women who were harvesting their fields in Koshobe and other rural communities in Jere Local Government Area.
“I extend my sincere condolences to the families of the civilians who lost their lives in this atrocious attack. I also wish a speedy recovery to those who were wounded in the incident,” he said.
Mr Kallon also said many women may have been kidnapped by the terrorists during the attack, something the Nigerian presidency kept mum about.
“We have also received reports that several women may have been kidnapped,” he said, calling for “their immediate release and return to safety.”
“My thoughts are also with the rural communities in the area, who are shocked by the brutality of yesterday’s attack and fear for their safety.
“The entire UN system and the humanitarian community working to provide life-saving and development assistance to the most vulnerable in Borno State is outraged by the incident.”
The UN official lamented that Saturday’s attack in Jere was the worst of such incidents this year in the troubled North-east that has suffered from Boko Haram attacks since 2009.
“The incident is the most violent direct attack against innocent civilians this year. I call for the perpetrators of this heinous and senseless act to be brought to justice,” Mr Kallon said.
“It is unfortunately one of too many such attacks targeting farmers, fishermen and families who are trying to recover some livelihood opportunity after over a decade of conflict.
“I strongly condemn this attack and any act of violence against innocent civilians and I firmly urge all actors on the ground to respect international laws and humanity.
“Rural communities in Borno State are facing untold hardships. Helping them to farmland and rebuild livelihoods are amongst our priorities and the only way to avoid the looming food crisis in Borno State. They and all other civilians need to be protected and spared from any kind of violence.
“Innocent women, children and men desperately need food and other support and assistance, particularly at a time when we are recording some of the highest levels of food insecurity in Borno State. We owe to do our utmost to help them survive these difficult times.”
Mr Kallon’s statement highlights the difficulty in getting accurate data about casualties of Boko Haram attacks in Borno as several parts of the state are not easily accessible and the government deliberately downplays both civilian and military casualty.
Chika Ike, is celebrating motherhood after the birth of her baby girl. She announced her pregnancy in February via an… Read More
Dayo Amusa addressed rumors about a romantic relationship with Fuji music legend K1 De Ultimate. In an interview, she clarified… Read More
Asake gifting his father, Fatai Odunsi (Malo), a house and car in 2023 has resurfaced online. The video has reignited… Read More
Chloe Bailey's recent music cover has sparked speculation about her rumored ex, Burna Boy. The lyrics of the cover express… Read More
Nigerian comic actress and media personality, Oluwatoyin Albert, popularly known as Tomama (DatWarriGirl), recently shared a funny yet unforgettable encounter… Read More
Popular Nigerian content creator, Chibuike Gabriel, widely known as Untouchable Comedies, has left fans worried after surviving a severe car… Read More
This website uses cookies.