Borno Govt: Forty Farmers Killed in Terror Attacks, Seeks Help from the Armed Forces

Michael Olugbode in Maiduguri

Borno State Government has confirmed the killing of 40 farmers in terrorist attack on Dumba community, near Baga in Kukawa Local Government Area of the state.

The governor, Prof. Babagana Zulum, while condemning the attack which was allegedly hatched on Sunday by suspected Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists, also disclosed that many, who escaped the attack were still being traced for reunion with their families.

A statement, yesterday by the Borno State Commissioner of Information and Internal Security, Prof Usman Tar read: “On Sunday 12 January 2025, armed militia suspected to be Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists attacked some farmers and fishermen at Dumba community, near Baga in Kukawa LGA.

“Investigation has commenced on the circumstances behind this attack. Initial report indicates about 40 farmers have been killed while many who escaped the attack are being traced for reunion with their families.

“The Borno State Governor, Prof Babagana Umara Zulum, condemns this attack in strong terms, and calls on the officers and men of Operation Hadin Kai to track and obliterate the insurgent elements that are operating at Dumba and other similar enclaves in the Lake Chad Area.

“Governor Zulum also commiserates with the victims and their families, while assuring them that those still missing will be found and reunited with the families.”

Quoting the governor, he said, “With deep sorrow and anguish, I received the sad news of the attack on Dumba where scores of our farmers and fishermen were killed by the terrorists.

“On behalf of the government, I sympathise with the victims’ families. Let me assure the citizens of Borno that this matter will be thoroughly investigated for further necessary action.

“Let me use this opportunity to call on the armed forces to track and deal decisively with the perpetrators of this heinous act of violence against our innocent citizens.”