Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum has reacted to the murder of 40 farmers and fishermen in Dumba, Kukawa Local Government Area, which occurred on Sunday, January 12, 2025.
While condemning the massacre by suspected Boko Haram/ISWAP militants, he called on security operatives to swing into action.
“With deep sorrow and anguish, I received the sad news of the attack on Dumba, where scores of our farmers and fishermen were killed by terrorists,” Governor Zulum said in a statement signed by Prof Usman Tar, Commissioner of Information and Internal Security.
He called on the Nigerian military to intensify its efforts under Operation Hadin Kai to track down and neutralize the insurgents operating in the Lake Chad region.
Governor Zulum also assured the public that the government would thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding the attack. “Let me use this opportunity to call on the armed forces to deal decisively with the perpetrators of this violence against our innocent citizens,” he added.
The incident occurred when the victims ventured beyond the designated security corridors for farming and fishing activities. These areas, which have been cleared by security forces, remain vulnerable to terrorist attacks and are sometimes contaminated with landmines. Governor Zulum urged citizens to stay within the safety zones established by the government and security agencies to avoid further attacks.
“The Government has clearly demarcated the land for safe farming and economic activities, allowing the military to focus on clearing the unsafe areas where security clearance and combat operations could be conducted. It is important for our citizens not to go into areas where there may be exchange of fires, or where the terrorists may be lurking and trespassing” Governor Zulum emphasized.
The governor also commended the armed forces for their ongoing efforts to clear vast areas of land for resettlement and agriculture, which are key components of the state’s strategy to address internal displacement.
Governor Zulum urged local communities to report any suspicious activities to security forces to prevent further tragedies.
