In a tragic incident in Yobe State, approximately 70 local farmers have been killed by gunmen believed to be members of the Boko Haram insurgent group. The attack occurred in Mafa village, located in the Tarmuwa local government area.
The assault took place on Sunday evening, during which the attackers set fire to homes and took numerous lives. Initial reports from the Yobe State Police Command confirmed the attack but lacked detailed information at the time.
Recent updates reveal that the bodies of the victims are being gathered and prepared for burial in Babbangida town, the administrative center of Tarmuwa local government.
Sources suggest that the attack was a retaliatory act in response to the villagers allegedly providing information to the military, which led to the deaths of several insurgents last month.
Audu Bulama Bukar, a UK-based advocate for Human Rights and Peace, expressed outrage over the attack. He criticized the lack of security response despite Boko Haram’s prior ultimatum on August 30th, which warned villagers to evacuate. Bukar stressed that this negligence has left communities vulnerable and discouraged local support for the military.
He warned that if security forces do not enhance their efforts, Boko Haram could regain strength and intensify their attacks. Bukar’s remarks highlight a recent uptick in Boko Haram violence after a period of relative calm.