Zulum mourns after killing of 63 in Borno community, UN condemns act

Zulum mourns after killing of 63 in Borno community, UN condemns act

Governor Babagana Umara Zulum of Borno State has confirmed that 63 people, including five soldiers, were killed in a brutal attack by Boko Haram insurgents on Friday night in Darajamal, a resettled community in Bama Local Government Area of the state.

Zulum, who visited the community over the weekend to commiserate with survivors and bereaved families, described the attack as “heart-wrenching” and “unprovoked.” Addressing reporters after meeting with local leaders and residents, the governor said, “We are here to commiserate with the people of Darajamal over what happened last night that has claimed the lives of many people. It is very sad. This community was settled a few months ago and they go about their normal activities, but unfortunately, they experienced Boko Haram attack last night.”

He confirmed that at least 63 people were killed, including approximately 58 civilians and 5 soldiers who were defending the area.

“At this moment, we have confirmed that 63 people lost their lives, both civilians and military, although the civilian casualties are more,” Zulum stated. “Our visit is to commiserate with them and build their resilience.”

The victims, according to local reports, included displaced persons who had been recently resettled in the area under a state-supported resettlement initiative.

The United Nations also issued a statement condemning the killings, calling it a grim reminder of the persistent insecurity in the region. Mohamed Fall, the UN Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, described the attack as “deeply appalling” and urged Nigerian authorities to ensure justice is served.

“Civilians should never be a target,” Fall said, confirming that preliminary reports suggested more than 50 civilians were killed, with an unknown number abducted and many injured. He also said at least 28 houses were burned in the raid.

This attack is the latest in a series of violent assaults across Borno State in 2025. Hundreds of civilians have been killed this year alone in attacks that have targeted farming communities, IDP camps, and travelers, using tactics ranging from IEDs to suicide bombings.

The Governor vowed that the state government would continue working with federal security agencies to protect resettled communities and support victims of insurgent attacks.