DAKAR, Senegal — A tragic incident has resulted in the deaths of at least 40 farmers in an assault by Islamic militants in Borno state, located in northeast Nigeria, according to a government representative on Monday.
The assault, which occurred on Sunday, is believed to have been executed by members of Boko Haram and its splinter group that aligns with the Islamic State. This attack took place in the Dumba community, as indicated by Borno state Governor Babagana Umara Zulum.
In light of the violence, Zulum advised residents to remain within “safe zones” that have been cleared by military forces and are free from both militants and explosives. He also called for a thorough investigation by the armed forces regarding the recent attack.
“I want to reassure the people of Borno that this matter will be fully examined, leading to the necessary actions,” Zulum stated. He further urged the armed forces to pursue and effectively confront those responsible for this brutal act against innocent citizens.
Boko Haram emerged in 2009 as a violent group opposing Western education and seeking to impose an extreme interpretation of Islamic law. The ongoing conflict, which has become the longest-standing insurgency in Africa, has extended its consequences into neighboring regions.
The United Nations reports that approximately 35,000 civilians have lost their lives due to this conflict, with over two million individuals displaced in the northeastern part of the country. The international community became especially aware of the crisis following the notorious 2014 abduction of 276 schoolgirls by Boko Haram in Chibok, located in Borno state, which serves as the focal point of this enduring conflict.
