In a tragic wave of violence, no fewer than 50 people were killed in separate terrorist attacks on Sunday night in Dumba, Baga town, Borno State, and Tatara village, Nasarawa State. The victims in Borno included farmers and fishermen, while 10 lives were lost in Nasarawa in an unprovoked night raid.
The Borno Tragedy
The attack in Borno occurred in Dumba, a community within Kukawa Local Government Area near Lake Chad, predominantly inhabited by farmers and fishermen. According to Borno State Commissioner for Information and Internal Security, Professor Usman Tar, about 40 farmers were killed in the attack, with several others missing. Survivors reported that the victims had unknowingly strayed beyond the security corridor demarcated for safe farming and economic activities.
Governor Babagana Umara Zulum of Borno State expressed deep sorrow and outrage over the attack. In a statement, he commended the military for its ongoing efforts to secure vast tracts of land for resettlement and farming but stressed the need for citizens to adhere to safety guidelines.
“With deep sorrow, I received the news of the attack on Dumba, where scores of farmers and fishermen were brutally killed. I urge our citizens to remain within the safety zones designated by security forces to ensure their protection,” Governor Zulum stated.
The governor called on the military officers and men of Operation Hadin Kai to intensify efforts to track and neutralize the insurgents responsible for the heinous act. He also reiterated the importance of citizens avoiding unsafe areas, which are often laced with landmines or vulnerable to nocturnal terrorist activities.
Nasarawa Attack Leaves 10 Dead
In Tatara village, located in the Panda Development Area of Nasarawa State, at least 10 people were killed in a late-night assault. Eyewitnesses reported that the attack started as a robbery before escalating into mass violence as a group of armed assailants on motorcycles stormed the community.
“It began as a robbery but quickly turned deadly when the attackers, allegedly Fulani militia, opened fire indiscriminately, killing three people instantly. By the time security forces arrived, seven more were dead, and the attackers had fled,” an eyewitness recounted.
Local sources suggested that the assailants may have been fleeing military operations in neighboring states like Zamfara and Katsina. There are growing concerns that some parts of Nasarawa, particularly areas with pronounced mining activities, may be harboring terrorist groups.
Government and Security Forces Respond
Efforts to confirm the attack from the Nasarawa State Police Command were unsuccessful at the time of reporting. However, residents called for intensified security measures, with many expressing fears over the increasing influx of terrorist groups into the state.
Borno State Commissioner for Information, Professor Usman Tar, emphasized the importance of community cooperation in reporting suspicious activities to security forces.
“The government commends the armed forces for their unwavering efforts in securing vast areas for resettlement and agriculture. However, it is crucial for citizens to remain vigilant and report strange movements or activities in their communities,” he said.
Call for United Action Against Terrorism
The twin attacks in Borno and Nasarawa have reignited calls for a more robust and coordinated effort to combat terrorism in Nigeria. Governor Zulum underscored the importance of continued collaboration between the government, security forces, and citizens in addressing the root causes of insecurity and ensuring sustainable peace.
The tragic events serve as a grim reminder of the persistent threat posed by insurgents and the urgent need for enhanced security measures to protect lives and livelihoods in affected regions.
