Suspected members of the Boko Haram terrorist group have carried out a deadly attack in Borno State, resulting in the tragic loss of seventeen lives. The incident occurred in Guzamala-Abbari village within Guzamala Local Government Area and extended to parts of Nganzai LGA, highlighting the ongoing security challenges in the region.
Speaker Confirms Details and Expresses Sympathy
The Speaker of the Borno State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Abdulkarim Lawan, who represents the affected constituency, has officially confirmed the attack and expressed deep sympathy for the families of the victims. In a statement, he revealed that twelve bodies were recovered from Guzamala-Abbari village and given a mass burial according to Islamic rites in Monguno. Additionally, five other bodies were found in a nearby settlement in Nganzai LGA and buried in Gajiram town.
Ongoing Search and Rescue Efforts
Speaker Lawan expressed shock over the massacre, noting that the exact number of casualties remains unspecified as many people are still missing. He emphasized that search and rescue operations are actively ongoing to locate those unaccounted for. The Speaker commiserated with the bereaved families and wished a quick recovery to the injured, while also praying for peace in the region.
Historical Context and Calls for Action
The attack underscores the persistent threat posed by Boko Haram in areas like Gudumbali, the headquarters of Guzamala LGA, which has been deserted for years and remains under terrorist control. Speaker Lawan has consistently advocated for federal government and military intervention to liberate the area and restore civil authority, particularly in Guzamala's council headquarters. The incident occurred approximately fifteen kilometres from the newly resettled Mairari village in Guzamala LGA, raising concerns about the safety of returning communities.
