Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State has condemned the deadly terrorist attack on the Dumba community, near Baga in the Kukawa Local Government Area, which claimed the lives of at least 40 farmers and fishermen.
The attack, which occurred on Sunday, is believed to have been carried out by Boko Haram and ISWAP insurgents operating in the Lake Chad area.
In a statement issued by the state’s Commissioner for Information and Internal Security, Usman Tar, Governor Zulum expressed deep sorrow and anguish over the attack, expressing sympathy for the victims’ families.
He assured the public that efforts were underway to locate those still missing and reunite them with their loved ones.
“The attack on Dumba is a tragic loss for our state,” Governor Zulum stated. “On behalf of the government, I sympathize with the victims’ families. We will ensure that this matter is thoroughly investigated, and the perpetrators face justice.”
The governor also urged the armed forces to intensify efforts in tracking and eliminating the insurgent elements operating in Dumba and other similar enclaves in the Lake Chad region.
He called on Operation Hadin Kai to decisively deal with those responsible for the heinous attack.
Zulum noted that the farmers had ventured beyond the safety corridor established by security agencies, entering an area that had not yet been cleared of terrorist elements and landmines.
He warned citizens to adhere to the demarcated safety zones to avoid falling victim to similar attacks.
In his message, Governor Zulum reiterated his commitment to ensuring the safety and security of Borno State citizens while emphasizing the need for continued collaboration between the government and security forces to eradicate insurgency in the region.