Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum addressing residents of Darajamal, a community in Bama LGA
Borno State Governor Babagana Umara Zulum visited the Darul Jamal Resettlement Estate for Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) along the Bama-Banki road, approximately 40 km from Banki town, to offer condolences following a devastating Boko Haram attack on Friday evening.
The assault claimed the lives of 58 civilians and 5 soldiers, totaling 63 deaths, and left 108 families homeless after 24 housing blocks were set ablaze, destroying properties worth millions of naira. Several survivors sustained injuries, and some residents remain missing.
Governor Zulum expressed deep sorrow for the loss of lives, describing the victims as “gentle and humble souls.”
He prayed for the deceased to find eternal peace and reaffirmed his commitment to restoring calm and providing support to the affected community.
Addressing the survivors, Zulum urged them to remain in the resettlement estate, assuring them that the tragic incident was an act of destiny.
He promised to bolster security through a joint task force comprising the military, police, Civil Defence, Civilian JTF, and vigilante hunters, ensuring ongoing support until normalcy is restored.
A reliable source informed our correspondent that the attack occurred shortly after Maghrib prayers, with insurgents launching a sudden assault, firing sporadically, and targeting specific homes.
The committee dispatched to the scene buried the victims individually, avoiding a mass burial, while fears of further attacks have prompted some residents to consider leaving the estate.
Accompanied by Bama Local Government Chairman, Modu Gujja, and members of the Repatriation Committee, led by the State Commissioner for Education, Innovation, Science, and Technology, Abba Lawan Wakilbe, Zulum toured the estate.
The committee, which includes commissioners from various ministries, SEMA, Bama LGC officials, state assembly members, and security agents, is tasked with supporting the traumatized IDPs recently repatriated from Cameroon and Chad.
Governor Zulum also held a security meeting with key officials, including the Theatre Commander of Operation Hadin Kai, Maj. Gen. Abubakar Abdulsalam, Brig. Gen. Victor Onachukwu of the 7 Division, Nigerian Army, Maimalari Cantonment, and Assistant Commissioner of Police Mohammed E. Ibrahim, to strategize on enhancing security around the estate.
Senator Kaka Lawan Shehu, representing Borno Central, extended his condolences and vowed to raise the issue with Senate President Godwin Akpabio when the Senate resumes, advocating for federal assistance to support the affected community.
He urged survivors to find strength in their faith, viewing the tragedy as an act of divine will.
