Suspected Boko Haram insurgents have ambushed and killed 12 people in Bokko Ghide community, located in Gwoza Local Government Area of Borno State. The deadly attack occurred on Saturday, leaving the community shaken.
According to the Emir of Gwoza, Mohammed Timta, two vigilantes, members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (JTF), were killed along Kirawa Road in Pulka District while carrying out their duties to protect the area. The vigilantes were reportedly ambushed by the attackers.
Additionally, 10 individuals who had ventured into the bush to fetch firewood were also killed in the ambush. The assailants left two others with life-threatening injuries. The Emir confirmed that the bodies of the victims were buried immediately, while the injured were evacuated to Maiduguri for medical treatment.
In his response to the tragic incident, the Emir expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives, particularly the two members of the Civilian JTF who had dedicated themselves to protecting their community. He called on God to reward their sacrifices and grant them eternal peace.
The Emir also acknowledged the efforts of the state government and military in managing the ongoing Boko Haram insurgency. However, he urged for greater use of technology, such as drones, to combat the insurgency more effectively. He stressed that the military’s continued presence and action were crucial in ensuring the safety of the people of Gwoza.
The attack has left residents in fear, with many now afraid to visit their farmlands as the rainy season approaches. Ali Audu, a local resident, expressed his shock, saying that he knew three of the victims personally. The growing number of attacks in the area has deeply affected the community’s morale, especially as many residents rely on farming for their livelihood.
Audu called for an immediate and strengthened security presence in the area to prevent further attacks and to ensure that people can safely resume their farming activities as the rainy season sets in.
This deadly attack is the latest in a series of incidents that have plagued the region for years, as Boko Haram continues to destabilize northern Nigeria. The Nigerian government and military are under increasing pressure to restore peace and security to the region.
