The security situation in Borno State has worsened following deadly attacks by militants from the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), a faction of Boko Haram. The militants launched devastating assaults on two communities in Chibok Local Government Area, resulting in numerous casualties and significant destruction of property.
On Sunday afternoon, insurgents stormed Tsikarkur village around 2 p.m., shooting indiscriminately and setting homes ablaze. Among the victims were two siblings, according to eyewitness reports. The attackers also looted food supplies and livestock, leaving the community in distress.
The violence continued late Monday night in Zillang village, also within Chibok LGA. Around 11:30 p.m., residents reported hearing heavy gunfire. Quick action by the villagers led to an alert being sent to the Nigerian Army. Soldiers, with support from local vigilantes, engaged the militants in a fierce gun battle that lasted until 4 a.m. Though the exact number of casualties remains unclear, extensive property damage was reported.
Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State condemned the attacks and highlighted the ongoing efforts to reunite survivors with their families. His remarks followed the confirmation of another terrorist assault in Dumba community near Baga in Kukawa Local Government Area, where 40 farmers were killed.
Professor Usman Tar, Borno State Commissioner of Information and Internal Security, addressed the Dumba tragedy in a statement on Monday. He noted, “On Sunday, 12 January 2025, armed militia suspected to be Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists attacked farmers and fishermen at Dumba community, near Baga in Kukawa LGA. Investigations are underway to determine the circumstances of the attack. Preliminary reports indicate about 40 farmers have been killed, and efforts are ongoing to trace survivors.”
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Chibok remains a symbol of the insurgency’s brutality, having gained international attention in April 2014 when over 300 schoolgirls were abducted from the Government Girls Secondary School. This resurgence in violence underscores the persistent security challenges plaguing Borno State and the broader northeastern region of Nigeria.
