By Ayomide Otitoju
The United Nations has strongly condemned the mass killing of at least 40 civilians in Dumba, Kukawa area of Borno State, Northeastern Nigeria. The attack, reportedly carried out by members of a non-state armed group on January 12, 2025, targeted farmers and fishermen accused of violating a ban on farming activities imposed by the group.
In a statement, Mohamed Malick, the UN Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, described the incident as “horrifying” and extended condolences to the bereaved families while wishing the injured a swift recovery.
“The armed actors who perpetrated these attacks must be identified and brought to account in compliance with national and international human rights laws,” Malick said.
Civilians in Constant Peril
The attack is part of a grim pattern of violence that has plagued Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe (BAY) states, the UN noted.
“This recent attack is yet another reminder of the profound dangers civilians in conflict-affected areas face in their struggle to survive,” the statement read.
The UN highlighted a series of violent incidents in 2024, including:
February: Hundreds of internally displaced persons (IDPs), including women and children, were allegedly abducted in Ngala LGA while searching for firewood.
June: Suicide bomb attacks in Gwoza LGA killed scores and left many others injured.
July: Suspected armed groups attacked farmers in Firgi, Gwoza LGA, killing IDPs and abducting two women and seven teenage girls, who were later released.
September: Over 100 men and boys were killed in Mafa, Tarmuwa LGA of Yobe State, in another NSAG attack.
Other violent incidents were also recorded in Dikwa, Logomane, Ngala, and Pulka areas of Borno State.
UN Calls for Action
The UN reiterated its commitment to supporting affected communities and working alongside the Nigerian government.
Malick urged for enhanced security measures and adherence to international humanitarian law to protect civilians from harm.
“The UN remains committed to supporting affected people to complement Government efforts,” he said.
The international body’s statement underscores the urgent need to address the escalating violence in Nigeria’s northeastern region and ensure accountability for the perpetrators of these atrocities.
