In a devastating attack, Boko Haram terrorists have killed at least 87 people in Yobe State, with 37 bodies recovered so far. The assault took place in Mafa, a town within the Tarmuwa Local Government Area, and has left the community reeling.
The deceased have been transported to Babbangida General Hospital, where preparations for a mass burial are underway. The burial, scheduled for 10 a.m., will be attended by Yobe State Deputy Governor Hon Idi Barde Gubana and other senior officials. The ceremony will be held at the Babangida Emir’s Palace, the administrative center of Tarmuwa LG.
Community sources have reported that many of the victims, primarily farmers, were killed as they returned from their agricultural activities. The terrorists also set homes and businesses ablaze during the attack, which occurred around 4 p.m.
Earlier last month, a similar attack by Boko Haram displaced 475 households and affected over 2,390 individuals in four Mafa ward communities. This recent attack may have been retaliation against villagers who had provided intelligence to the military, leading to a previous successful operation against the insurgents.
Yobe State Police Command spokesman Dungus Abdulkarim confirmed the attack but noted that details are still emerging due to communication challenges in the affected area. The terrorists reportedly arrived on over 50 motorcycles, torched properties, and left behind fliers with Arabic inscriptions.
Brigadier-General Dahiru Abdulsalam (Retired), the Special Adviser to the Governor on Security Matters, has verified the attack and stated that military forces have been deployed to the region. Mafa village is located near Shekau village, the birthplace of the late Boko Haram leader Abubakar Shekau.
Hyelsinta Hassan