The United Nations has condemned the killing of more than 40
farmers in Borno state.
The farmers were killed in Jere local government area of
Borno on Saturday, following an attack by armed men said to be members of the
Boko Haram sect.
Edward Kallon, UN resident and humanitarian coordinator in
Nigeria, in a statement on Sunday, described the incident as “the most violent
attack” targeted at civilians in 2020.
“I am outraged and horrified by the gruesome attack against civilians carried out by non-state armed groups in villages near Borno State capital Maiduguri. Tens of civilians were ruthlessly killed and many others were wounded in this attack,” he said.
“We have also received reports that several women may have
been kidnapped. I call for their immediate release and return to safety.
“My thoughts are also with the rural communities in the
area, who are shocked by the brutality of yesterday’s attack and fear for their
safety.
“The entire UN system and the humanitarian community working
to provide life-saving and development assistance to the most vulnerable in
Borno State is outraged by the incident. Such direct attacks against innocent
civilians jeopardize the ability for the most vulnerable people to survive the
adversity there are facing, and which we are striving to alleviate.
“The incident is the most violent direct attack against
innocent civilians this year. I call for the perpetrators of this heinous and
senseless act to be brought to justice.”
While noting that such attacks could worsen the food crisis
already being experienced in Borno, Kallon called on the government to ensure
adequate protection of residents in the state.
“It is unfortunately one of too many such attacks targeting
farmers, fishermen and families who are trying to recover some livelihood
opportunity after over a decade of conflict,” the UN coordinator said.
“I strongly condemn this attack and any act of violence
against innocent civilians and I firmly urge all actors on the ground to
respect international laws and humanity.
“Rural communities in Borno State are facing untold
hardships. Helping them to farm land and rebuild livelihoods are amongst our
priorities and the only way to avoid the looming food crisis in Borno State.
They and all other civilians need to be protected and spared from any kind of
violence.
“Innocent women, children and men desperately need food and
other support and assistance, particularly at a time when we are recording some
of the highest levels of food insecurity in Borno State. We owe to do our
utmost to help them survive these difficult times.”
Advertise on NigerianEye.com to reach thousands of our daily users
That's exactly where @MBuhari wants the international bodies. Attempt to make belief that killings is widespread in the North before attacking the real target Southern Nigeria. The Islamisation agenda of @MBuhari will lead to mass murder and loss of more lives. The world should know that and not be in illusion about this.
ReplyDelete