Suspected Boko Haram terrorists attacked a community in Hong Local Government Area of Adamawa State on Christmas Day, causing fear among residents but leaving no reported casualties. The attack took place in Mayo Ladde village, located in the Garage District of the local government area.
Mayo Ladde is known as the hometown of a former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Boss Mustapha. The village shares a border with Askira Uba Local Government Area of Borno State and is close to the Sambisa Forest, a region long linked with Boko Haram insurgents.
Sources in the area said the attackers stormed the village early on Christmas Day, catching security operatives and residents by surprise. The sudden attack caused panic as villagers ran for safety while security forces quickly responded to the situation.
The Chairman of Hong Local Government Area, Mr Usman Waaganda, confirmed that the attack occurred but said no deaths or injuries were recorded. According to him, the terrorists were forced to retreat after a strong response from soldiers and other security personnel.
“The terrorists were repelled by troops of Operation Hadin Kai, working together with other security agencies,” Waaganda said. He praised the security forces for their quick action, which helped prevent loss of lives and further damage.
Operation Hadin Kai is the military operation currently in charge of counter-insurgency efforts in the North-East region. The operation was set up to tackle Boko Haram and other terrorist groups operating in Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe states.
The Adamawa State Police Command also confirmed the incident. The Police Public Relations Officer, SP Suleiman Nguroje, said that Mayo Ladde experienced violence during the Christmas period but assured that the situation is now under control.
“Yes, there was an incident in Mayo Ladde on Christmas Day,” Nguroje said. “The area has since calmed down, and security personnel are on ground to maintain peace.”
Although no casualties were reported, the attack has renewed fears among residents of border communities in northern Adamawa. Many people in the area live in constant fear of attacks due to their proximity to Borno State and the Sambisa Forest, which has served as a hideout for insurgents for many years.
Hong Local Government Area lies in the northern part of Adamawa State, where Boko Haram elements have been known to operate. Over the years, several communities in the area have suffered attacks, kidnappings, and destruction of property.
Boko Haram began its violent campaign in the North-East more than a decade ago, leading to the deaths of thousands of people and the displacement of millions. While security forces have recorded successes in weakening the group, occasional attacks like the one in Mayo Ladde show that the threat has not been completely eliminated.
Residents of Mayo Ladde said the timing of the attack, on Christmas Day, was troubling, as many people were celebrating the holiday with family and friends. Some villagers said they heard gunshots and loud noises before security forces arrived to push back the attackers.
Community leaders have called on the government to strengthen security around border areas and improve intelligence gathering to prevent surprise attacks. They also urged residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies by reporting suspicious movements.
The Adamawa State Government has in the past promised to support security agencies and protect communities at risk of insurgent attacks. The state has worked with federal authorities to deploy troops and set up security posts in vulnerable areas.
Despite the calm that has returned to Mayo Ladde, security patrols have been increased in and around the community to prevent further attacks. Residents have been advised to remain cautious and avoid unnecessary movement, especially at night.