Fresh Boko Haram onslaught in Borno leaves many dead

Shock and fury trailed yet another Boko Haram strike on Borno at the weekend, with Darajamal community in Bama LGA left in ruins and families counting their dead.

The terrorists stormed the settlement late Friday night, unleashing hours of gunfire, burning homes, shops, and vehicles, and leaving dozens lifeless before military reinforcement arrived.

Governor Babagana Zulum, who visited the devastated community on Saturday, confirmed 63 people, including five soldiers, were killed in the massacre. Survivors put civilian deaths at more than 50.

“This community was resettled only a few months ago, but sadly it has now suffered another Boko Haram attack,” Zulum said, calling for the immediate deployment of trained Forest Guards to protect vulnerable areas.

The Nigerian Air Force later announced that it neutralised more than 30 fleeing insurgents in airstrikes coordinated with ground troops.

The United Nations Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, Mohamed Fall, described the killings as “appalling,” insisting civilians must never be targets.

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar also mourned the victims, condemning the attack as “senseless violence,” while Senator Ali Ndume demanded that the Federal Government prioritise Technology, Equipment, Arms, Ammunition, and Motivation (TEAM) in the fight against insurgency.

Friday’s massacre adds to a wave of renewed violence in the North-East, underscoring the persistent threat of Boko Haram despite ongoing military operations.