Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has strongly condemned the recent Boko Haram assault on Daral-Jamal, a community along the Bama-Banki Road in the Sambisa Forest, which left five soldiers and 58 civilians dead.
In a statement released on Sunday, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) described the incident as another act of senseless violence and urged for a united front to put an end to the bloodshed. He extended condolences to the families of the victims and to Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, who had earlier visited the affected community to console the bereaved.
“I am deeply saddened by the tragic killing of scores of people, including gallant soldiers, in the recent Boko Haram attack on Darajamal, Borno State. This senseless violence is a painful reminder of the heavy price our people continue to pay in the face of terror,” Atiku wrote on X.
“My heartfelt condolences go to the bereaved families, the resilient people of Borno, and Governor Zulum, whose swift compassion in visiting the affected community is commendable. May Almighty Allah grant the departed Al-Jannah Firdaus and comfort their loved ones,” he added.
The former vice president stressed that Nigeria must tackle the security challenge with greater urgency, saying, “As a nation, we must rise to confront this menace with unity and renewed resolve. The sacrifices of our soldiers and civilians must inspire stronger community security, deeper collaboration, and unwavering commitment to peace.”
The devastating attack also saw the destruction of over 20 houses, vehicles, food supplies, and other property belonging to resettled Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs). Governor Zulum, visibly shaken during his visit on Saturday, condemned the massacre and offered words of support to grieving families.
The international community has also reacted, with the United Nations (UN) joining in denouncing the assault. In a statement, the UN Humanitarian Coordinator, Mohamed Fall, urged Nigerian authorities to ensure those behind the killings are apprehended and brought to justice. He also extended condolences to the families affected by the tragedy.
What You Should Know
Atiku Abubakar has condemned the Boko Haram attack in Borno that killed 63 people, calling for unity and stronger resolve to defeat terrorism.
The UN also condemned the massacre, urging Nigerian authorities to bring the perpetrators to justice.
