Following at least 63 deaths in Borno State, the United Nations and Nigerian leaders issued strong statements. The attack occurred in Darul Jamal and Mongono Local Governments, killing many civilians and soldiers, and burning to the ground not only homes, but many civilians returning home after months of being displaced.
The UN condemned the attack, calling it “shocking, atrocious”, and called on the Nigerian authorities to conduct an immediate inquiry and bring the perpetrators to justice. The UN stated civilian life must be protected and that the communities in the North East must be provided greater protection.
Atiku Abubakar, Nigeria’s former Vice President, reacted angrily to the senseless killings. He urged all Nigerians to unite against terrorism and commended the Governor Babagana Zulum for visiting to see the aftermath of the incident. He also called on the Federal Government to redouble and intensify efforts against the increasing insurgency.
Peter Obi, the Labour Party presidential candidate, also went much further again to caution that Nigeria is sliding towards the re-spark of a war situation. He urged the President to urgently relook into the Nigeria emergency situation and possibly suspend all foreign travels until the dangerous insecurity situation was addressed. He plainly stated the obligation of leadership of a nation is to protect its citizens above all else.
Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume made practical suggestions to step up the fight against terrorism, including the use of drones, attack helicopters, and community protection groups. He provided a plan he developed in 2022 called “TEAAM” for Technology, Equipment, Arms, Ammunition and Motivation.
During his visit to the affected areas, Governor Zulum promised immediate assistance as well as the reconstruction of destroyed homes. He also assured residents that security measures would be reinforced to prevent further attacks.
The massacre has renewed concerns about the vulnerability of conflict-affected communities. Humanitarian organizations warn that displaced people returning to their villages are easy targets for these militant groups.
The public remains frustrated, with calls for accountability and safety, and fears that the situation will only worsen if serious and immediate measures are not implemented.
More stories from Nigerian newspapers at the homepage.