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Tag: borno

  • 44-year-old housewife stabs husband to death in Borno

    44-year-old housewife stabs husband to death in Borno

    The Borno State Police Command has arrested Falmata Muhammad, a 44-year-old woman, for allegedly stabbing her husband to death in Pulka, Gwoza LGA.

    According to Zagazola Makama, a counter-insurgency publication focused on the Lake Chad region, the incident occurred at about 5:30 am on Thursday.

    “The suspect attacked Muhammad Mallum, her 50 years old husband with a knife inflicting a fatal chest wound,” the report reads.

    Makama said the victim was rushed to the General Hospital at Gwoza where he was confirmed dead by a medical doctor.

    His body has been deposited in the hospital’s mortuary for autopsy, the publication added.

    The publication said that the suspect was arrested by police officers from Gwoza division, following a report from a relative of the deceased, the murder weapon was also recovered as evidence.

    Police say a “full” investigation into the motive behind the attack is underway, with plans for a ”thorough” prosecution.

  • UN condemns Borno killings, says perpetrators must be brought to account

    UN condemns Borno killings, says perpetrators must be brought to account

    The United Nations (UN) has strongly condemned the recent mass killing of civilians in the Kukawa area of Borno State, Northeastern Nigeria.

    In a statement, the UN Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, Mohamed Malick, described the January 12, 2025, attack in Dumba community, which claimed the lives of at least 40 civilians, as horrifying.

    The attack was reportedly carried out by members of a non-state armed group.

    The victims, primarily farmers and fishermen, were allegedly targeted for violating a ban on farming activities imposed by the group.

    Malick extended condolences to the bereaved families, wished the injured a swift recovery, and reaffirmed the UN’s solidarity with the people and government of Borno State.

    He also called for the perpetrators to be identified and held accountable under the full extent of the law.

    “The armed actors who perpetrated these attacks must be identified and brought to account in compliance with national and international human rights laws,” Malick said.

    The statement added, “This recent attack is yet another grim reminder of the profound dangers that civilians in conflict affected parts ofBorno, Adamawa and Yobe (BAY) states continue to face in their struggle to survive.

    “In 2024, multiple attacks against civilians were recorded. In February 2024, NSAGs allegedly abducted hundreds of internally displaced persons (IDPs), many of them women, boys and girls in Ngala LGA, Borno State.

    “The IDPs had reportedly ventured beyond the safety of the trenches surrounding Ngala in search of firewood.

    “In June 2024, scores of civilians were reportedly killed and others seriously injured following suicide bomb attacks in Gwoza LGA, also in Borno.

    “In July 2024, suspected NSAGs attacked farmers in the Firgi community, also in Gwoza LGA, leading to the killing of an unspecified number of IDPs and the abduction of two women and seven teenage girls who were later released. And in September 2024, more than 100 men and boys lost their lives following an NSAG attack on Mafa, in Yobe State’s Tarmuwa LGA.

    “Several other incidents were reported in Borno’s Dikwa, Logomane, Ngala and Pulka areas. The UN remains committed to supporting affected people to complement Government efforts.”

    “I also call for enhanced security measures and urge parties to the conflict to adhere to their obligations under international humanitarian law to protect civilians from harm.”

  • Some soldiers, civilians missing as Boko Haram ambush troops in Borno

    Some soldiers, civilians missing as Boko Haram ambush troops in Borno

    An unspecified number of Nigerian military personnel are reported missing following an ambush by Boko Haram terrorists in Baga, near the Lake Chad region.

    Sources within the armed forces, speaking anonymously to Channels Television, revealed that the soldiers were ambushed while attempting to recover the bodies of 40 residents killed by the insurgents. A fierce gun battle ensued, resulting in the deaths of several soldiers.

    “Our troops went in search of dead bodies of civilians killed by the terrorists, we went too far in search of them and the terrorists played ambush on us. A combined team of the armed forces including civilians.

    “There was exchange of fire, they killed some of our soldiers. We are yet to ascertain the number because the dead bodies are yet to be collected and some soldiers are still returning to base, so we are yet to know the number of deaths,” the military source said.

    Another civilian source in Baga said about 50 civilians went to recover dead bodies of those killed yesterday but only one person has return so far.

    The source said the 50 men include civilian joint taskforce, local hunters and some other young men.

    “About 50 villagers mobilized and went out to recover the dead bodies of the villagers that were killed by Boko Haram terrorists and then the terrorists ambushed them. They killed several people, but we don’t know the number yet because one person has return to the village, we are awaiting others.

    “I don’t know the casualty on the side of the military as such I cannot talk about it, but the civilians include civilian joint taskforce members, hunters and vigilantes,” the local source said.

    The incident in Baga occurred on Tuesday following an attack that claimed the lives of 40 residents.

    In a separate attack in Gwoza, six individuals lost their lives, including five reportedly identified as repentant insurgents, members of the Civilian Joint Task Force, and local hunters.

  • Gov Zulum condemns Boko Haram attack Killing 40 farmers

    Gov Zulum condemns Boko Haram attack Killing 40 farmers

    Governor Babagana Zulum has strongly condemned the terrorist attack on the Dumba community near Baga in the Kukawa Local Government Area of Borno State.  

    The attack, carried out by Boko Haram and ISWAP operatives, claimed the lives of at least 40 farmers and fishermen on Sunday. Zulum urged the officers and men of Operation Hadin Kai to locate and eliminate the insurgents responsible for the attack in Dumba and other hideouts within the Lake Chad region.

    The governor expressed his condolences to the victims and their families, pledging efforts to locate those still missing and reunite them with their loved ones.

    In a statement by the state’s Commissioner of Information and Internal Security, Usman Tar, the governor said, “With deep sorrow and anguish, I received the sad news of the attack on Dumba where scores of our farmers and fishermen were killed by the terrorists.

    “On behalf of the government, I sympathise with the victims’ families. Let me assure the citizens of Borno that this matter will be thoroughly investigated for further necessary action.

    “Let me use this opportunity to call on the armed forces to track and deal decisively with the perpetrators of this heinous act of violence against our innocent citizens.

    “It was observed that the farmers strayed off the security corridor established by the security agencies, and went into an enclave that is yet to be cleared. Such enclaves are usually prone to nocturnal attacks by marauding terrorists, as well as being contaminated with landmines.”

    The governor called on citizens not to venture beyond the safety zones that are demarcated by the government and security agencies.

  • IGP Egbetokun orders clampdown on attackers of Police Station in Borno

    IGP Egbetokun orders clampdown on attackers of Police Station in Borno

    The Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, ordered actions on Friday against the attackers of the Nganzai Divisional Police Headquarters in Borno State.

    The attack on Thursday by Boko Haram terrorists resulted in the deaths of two police officers, with another officer critically injured.

    The terrorists exchanged fire with officers on duty at the station before being overpowered and repelled with the help of the civilian joint taskforce stationed nearby.

    In response to the incident, which occurred around 12:10 AM, a statement issued on Friday by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumiyiwa Adejobi, identified the two deceased officers as Inspector Bartholomew Kalawa and Corporal Mustapha Huzaifat.

    Adejobi reported that Egbetokun condemned the attack and ordered an immediate and thorough crackdown on the attackers, emphasizing that “any cop-killers will not go unpunished.”

    The IGP also expressed condolences to the families of the fallen officers, assuring them that their sacrifice will not be forgotten.

    Egbetokun confirmed that the entitlements and benefits of the deceased officers would be promptly provided.

    The statement added “The IGP has therefore directed the Zone 15 Assistant Inspector-General of Police, AIG Kenechukwu Onwuemelie, fdc., to mobilise adequate resources and personnel, collaborate with other security agencies to ensure the perpetrators of this nefarious act are found and caused to face the full wrath of the law.

    “As investigations continue, the IGP reaffirms the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to holding accountable those who jeopardise and disrupt the security arrangement and safety in Nigeria.”

  • Boko Haram kills two Police Officers in Borno

    Two police officers were killed, and one critically injured, during an attack on a police station in Gajiram, Nganzai Local Government Area of Borno State by Boko Haram terrorists.

    The attack occurred around 11:00 pm on Wednesday, according to security sources, though a police statement noted it began at approximately 12:10 am on Thursday.

    Officers on duty, supported by the Civilian Joint Task Force stationed nearby, engaged the attackers in a gun battle, eventually repelling them. Despite the violence, no facilities or security equipment were damaged.

    The Borno State Police Command’s Public Relations Officer, ASP Kenneth Daso, confirmed that grenades were recovered at the scene during an assessment by the Commissioner of Police, Yusufu Lawal.

    “Gallant officers on watch repelled the terrorists after a series of gun exchanges. Unfortunately, hand grenades thrown by the attackers fatally wounded two officers,” the statement read.

    The Commissioner of Police commended the bravery of the officers who defended the station and extended condolences to the families of the deceased. The situation in Gajiram has since been brought under control, with the police reaffirming their commitment to ensuring security and stability in the area.

  • Borno Attack: Tinubu mourns slain soldiers, orders investigation

    Borno Attack: Tinubu mourns slain soldiers, orders investigation

    President Bola Tinubu on Thursday expressed his condolences for the soldiers killed in an attack on an army base in Sabon Gida, Damboa, Borno State.

    Members of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) launched a pre-dawn assault on the base in Sabon Gari, Damboa, last Saturday, using trucks and motorcycles.

    According to military sources, who spoke anonymously as they were not authorized to comment, the attackers set fire to the base and army vehicles.

    Fighter jets deployed from Maiduguri, the regional capital, located 100 kilometers (62 miles) away, struck the attackers as they retreated.

    In a statement issued by presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu extended his heartfelt sympathy to the military leadership following the tragic loss of six courageous soldiers in the terrorist attack on January 4.

    He ordered a “thorough investigation to uncover the circumstances that led to the unfortunate incident and ensure that it serves as a valuable lesson to prevent similar occurrences.”

    “This resolute action by the Army demonstrates the capability and readiness of our military to confront and defeat threats to our nation’s security. Their actions testify to our resolve to eradicate terrorism and banditry, paving the way for a future where peace and security prevail for all Nigerians,” the President was quoted as saying.

    “I extend heartfelt gratitude and sympathy to our military and security forces on behalf of a grateful nation.

    “Your sacrifices and dedication do not go unnoticed, and we stand firmly behind you in this ongoing fight to eliminate these threats.”

    The Commander-in-Chief also praised the armed forces for their quick and decisive response, particularly the air component, which carried out effective retaliatory strikes.

    According to Tinubu, the targeted air raids led to the significant neutralization of numerous terrorists and the destruction of their assets as they tried to flee.

    The President urged the military to take a more proactive approach by targeting the camps of bandits and terrorists.

    He specifically highlighted the Northwest, where these criminals continue to pose a threat to the lives and livelihoods of innocent villagers.

    Tinubu called on Nigerians and the media to lend their support to the military’s efforts in restoring peace and security across the nation.

  • DHQ confirms ISWAP terrorists killed six soldiers during raid in Borno

    DHQ confirms ISWAP terrorists killed six soldiers during raid in Borno

    The Defence Headquarters has confirmed the death of six soldiers following an attack by the Islamic State/Boko Haram group on a military base in Borno State.

    Channels Television published reports of the incident on Monday.

    According to the report, fighters from the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) stormed the base in Sabon Gari, located in the Damboa district of Borno State, using trucks and motorcycles.

    The insurgents reportedly set fire to the base along with army vehicles. “We lost six soldiers in the ISWAP terrorists attack on the base after an intense gun battle,” AFP quoted one of the officers.

    Fighter jets were reportedly deployed from the regional capital Maiduguri 100 kilometres (62 miles) away, and struck the attackers as they retreated.

    In an update statement on Wednesday, the DHQ said although on the whole, 34 terrorists were killed and 23 AK 47 weapons recovered, six of its personnel were killed in action.

    The DHQ also said its troops recovered over 200 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition.

    The statement said “On 4 January 2025, an unspecified number of  ISWAP/BHT terrorists riding on motorcycles and Gun trucks engaged troops deployed in SABON GARI Village of  DAMBOA Local Government Area of Borno State in a firefight. The terrorists had attempted to surprise troops and retaliate against the recent killing of their commander and combatants by troops.

    “The terrorists were taken unaware when troops fighting patrol returning to base foiled their planned attack as soon as the attack commenced. Additionally, the troop’s reinforcement team comprised of elements of the Civilian Joint Taskforce, vigilantes as well as hybrid forces timely arrived at the scene to overpower the terrorists.

    “Furthermore, though troops reinforcement team encountered an Improvise Explosive Device injuring the Vigilante Commander. The reinforcement team arrived in time to decimate the fleeing terrorist.

    “Furthermore, the air component of Operation HADIN KAI conducted air interdiction on the fleeing terrorist. Battle Damage Assessment revealed several killed terrorists and recovered weapons.

    “On the whole, 34 terrorists were killed and 23 AK 47 weapons were recovered. Troops also recovered with over 200 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition. Sadly, 6 personnel were killed in action.

    “Kindly note that the names of killed in-action personnel are withheld to allow administrative procedures of notifying their next of kin to be concluded. Accordingly, the media is requested to respect the process, please.”

    The Armed Forces have emphasized their unwavering commitment to eradicating insurgency and terrorism in the country, reaffirming their awareness of their responsibility in this fight.

    They stated that troops remain resolute in their mission to defeat terrorist groups.

    Northern Nigeria has faced persistent violence since 2009 from jihadist groups such as Boko Haram and the Islamic State in West Africa Province (ISWAP), alongside armed criminal factions.

    The conflict has claimed over 40,000 lives and displaced approximately two million people in the northeast.

    In November, five Nigerian troops were killed, and 10 others injured during an ISWAP attack on a base in Kareto village, near the Niger border.

  • Gov Zulum revises 2025 appropriation bill

    Gov Zulum revises 2025 appropriation bill

    Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum has signed into law the 2025 appropriation bill totaling N615.86 billion, following its passage by the State House of Assembly, which increased the initial proposal by N31.1 billion.

    The Governor originally presented a budget of N584.76 billion on December 9, 2024, under the theme “Budget of Recovery and Continuity,” aimed at advancing the state’s developmental initiatives.

    The revised bill was formally presented to the Governor by the Speaker of the Borno State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Abdulkarim Lawan, during a ceremony at the council chamber of the Government House in Maiduguri on Monday.

    In his address, Governor Zulum urged heads of Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), along with members of the state executive council, to adhere strictly to the provisions of the budget when submitting their memos for approval.

    He also expressed appreciation to the leadership and members of the State House of Assembly for their timely approval of the budget.

    “We have to commend the leadership of the House of Assembly, we also have to commend the maturity of the House led by our able Speaker, Rt. Hon. Abdulkarim Lawan.

    “This is very important because all the developmental strides achieved could not have been possible without the full support and cooperation government received from the legislature.

    “This year is very important for me, because, I want to complete all the promises I made during 2023 electioneering campaigns”. Zulum said.

    The Speaker of the Borno State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Abdulkarim Lawan, praised Governor Babagana Zulum for the impactful projects executed across the state over the past six years.

    The Speaker explained that the upward revision of the appropriation bill aimed to address critical areas essential to improving the lives of the people.

    Separately, Governor Zulum chaired the first Executive Council Meeting, where he commended Deputy Governor Umar Kadafur, Secretary to the State Government Dr. Bukar Tijjani, heads of MDAs, and the media for their professionalism and contributions to advancing the administration’s efforts to enhance the living standards of Borno residents.

    Additionally, the Governor announced the appointment of Dr. Mustapha Mallumbe, Commissioner of Budget and Economic Planning, as Deputy Chief of Staff. This move follows the temporary absence of Chief of Staff Professor Hussaini Marte, who is currently recovering from an illness.

  • Borno Gov subsidises petrol to N600/Ltr for farmers in communities affected by insurgency

    Borno Gov subsidises petrol to N600/Ltr for farmers in communities affected by insurgency

    Governor Babagana Umara Zulum of Borno State has announced a petrol subsidy initiative to support farmers in communities affected by the Boko Haram insurgency.

    Speaking in Bama town on Friday evening during the distribution of farm inputs to over 5,000 displaced farmers, Zulum revealed that petrol, which costs between ₦1,000 and ₦1,200 per litre in Maiduguri, will be subsidized to ₦600 per litre for the farmers.

    The initiative aims to ease the financial burden on farmers in areas severely impacted by economic and infrastructural destruction due to years of conflict.

    The governor highlighted the success of a similar program implemented last year in Damasak, Mobar Local Government Area, which significantly boosted food production and improved livelihoods in the region.

    “One of the major challenges that are facing the farming communities here as regards irrigation farming is the increasing cost of fuel, as a result, I want to announce to the general public that the government will procure petroleum products and sell them to the farmers at a subsided rate, a litre of petrol is being sold in Maiduguri at the cost of about N1,200 but in sha Allah, henceforth for irrigation farmers this season a litre of petrol will be sold at the rate of N600,” Zulum said.

    The governor also said, “The Commissioner for Agriculture will work with the Brigade Commander to ensure the delivery of the petroleum products to farmers in Bama town as soon as possible.”

    Governor Babagana Umara Zulum has supplemented the petrol subsidy initiative with the distribution of essential farming inputs to support farmers in Borno State.

    The items distributed include 2,000 bags of blended NPK fertilizer, 1,000 water pumps, 620 gasoline pumps, 380 solar water pumps, 1,000 sprayers, 800 rolls of 2-inch flexible hose, 1,000 liters of pesticides, seeds, and other materials.

    Zulum also revealed that his administration has constructed over 100 tube wells for irrigation farmers, with approval granted for the construction of an additional 250.

    In a related development, the governor visited Darajama and Goniri villages in Bama Local Government Area to assess ongoing reconstruction efforts. Zulum expressed satisfaction with the quality of the work but reiterated his administration’s zero tolerance for any attempts to sabotage the resettlement drive.

    He also expressed gratitude to the federal government for its significant support in the reconstruction and resettlement of communities affected by insurgency.