Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, has denounced the recent terrorist attack on Dumba community, located near Baga in Kukawa Local Government Area.
The attack, carried out on Sunday, January 12, 2025, by suspected Boko Haram/ISWAP militants, left at least 40 farmers dead.
Authorities, at the time of filing this report, are still working to locate and reunite survivors with their families as several people remain missing.
In a statement, governor Zulum expressed sadness over the incident and called on the Armed Forces under Operation Hadin Kai to intensify efforts to track and neutralize the perpetrators.
“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 sympathize with the victims’ families,” Zulum said in a statement.
“I call on the armed forces to track and decisively deal with the perpetrators of this heinous act of violence against our innocent citizens,” he added.
Preliminary investigations, as gathered by Worldclass247News, revealed that the victims had ventured beyond the military-designated security corridor into an area known for terrorist activity and landmine contamination.
Governor Zulum urged residents to adhere to safety measures and remain within the government-marked “safe corridors” for farming and other activities.
“The government has clearly marked safe zones for farming and economic activities, allowing the military to focus on clearing dangerous areas. Citizens must not venture into these unsafe zones where the threat of terrorist attacks persists,” he cautioned.
The state government commended the military’s efforts to secure and clear large swathes of land for resettlement and agricultural use, a critical part of Zulum’s strategy to address internal displacement in Borno. Residents were encouraged to report suspicious activities to security agencies promptly.
Governor Zulum reiterated the government’s commitment to safeguarding lives and livelihoods, emphasizing the need for strong collaboration between local communities and security forces.