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UN Condemns Killing of Farmers in Borno

by AgroNigeria

The United Nations has raised alarm following the recent mass killing of fishermen and farmers in Borno State, allegedly carried out by members of a non-state armed group in the Kukawa Local Government Area. 

In a statement released on Wednesday, the UN Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, Mohamed Fall, condemned the incident, describing it as “horrific”.

Reports have revealed that on January 12, at least 40 civilians were killed in the Dumba community after allegedly violating a ban on farming activities enforced by the armed group. 

Additionally, numerous others are reported missing, according to humanitarian organizations operating in the neighboring Monguno Local Government Area.

In his statement, Fall extended heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and emphasized the need for accountability. 

“I am horrified by the recent mass killing of fishermen and farmers in Borno State’s Kukawa Local Government Area, reportedly carried out by members of a non-state armed group,” he said. “On January 12, at least 40 civilians, all men, were killed in the Dumba community in Kukawa after allegedly breaching a NSAG ban on farming activities. Several people remain missing, according to humanitarian partners working in Monguno.”

Fall conveyed his sympathy on behalf of the United Nations in Nigeria, offering condolences to those mourning their loved ones and wishing a swift recovery to the injured. He also reaffirmed the UN’s solidarity with the people and government of Borno State. 

The statement further called for the identification of those responsible for the violence and for them to be held accountable under national and international human rights laws.

The UN official also highlighted the escalating threats faced by civilians in conflict-affected regions such as Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe states.

The attack in Kukawa is the latest in a series of violent incidents that have plagued the region in recent months. 

Notably, 2024 witnessed the abduction of internally displaced persons in Ngala, suicide bombings in Gwoza, and, in a particularly devastating assault, more than 100 men and boys were killed in Yobe State’s Tarmuwa Local Government Area. Similar attacks were reported in Borno State’s Dikwa, Logomane, Ngala, and Pulka areas.

In light of these continued atrocities, the United Nations reaffirmed its commitment to providing support to affected communities and to working in conjunction with the Nigerian government. 

However, the UN also stressed the urgent need for enhanced security measures to safeguard civilians in the region. 

Fall called on all parties involved in the conflict to uphold their obligations under international humanitarian law, with a particular focus on protecting civilians from further harm.

“The UN remains committed to assisting those affected by the violence and will continue to support efforts alongside the government of Nigeria,” Fall stated. 

“I also call for urgent improvements in security and the strict adherence to international humanitarian law by all parties to the conflict to ensure the safety and well-being of civilians.”

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