Nine people were killed and four others injured when Boko Haram insurgents launched a deadly attack on Malam Fatori, a border town in Borno State’s Abadam Local Government Area.
The attack which occurred 272 kilometres from Maiduguri, has left residents reeling in shock and mourning, in a town that has suffered repeated threats due to its proximity to insurgent hideouts.
In response, Borno State Governor Babagana Umara Zulum sent a government delegation to condole with the victims’ families and reassure residents of renewed efforts to protect the town.
“We are here at the instance of His Excellency, Governor Babagana Umara Zulum, who is out of the country on an official assignment to condole with the people of Malam Fatori over the recent unfortunate attack,” said Hon. Sugun Mai Mele, the Commissioner for Local Government and Emirate Affairs.
He added, “The governor assured that the Borno State government and the military will do everything possible to secure the town.”
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Each bereaved family received ₦500,000 in cash assistance, while those injured were given ₦250,000 each to support their recovery.
The commissioner warned against any collaboration with Boko Haram, stating, “Let me warn against colluding with Boko Haram, as we will seek divine intervention from the Holy Quran; anyone found collaborating with the insurgents to bring harm or attack to the people of Malam Fatori will be cursed.”
Mele also announced that trenches would be dug around the town to fortify it against future attacks, and commended the military for their continued efforts.
Meanwhile, the Commissioner for Information and Internal Security, Professor Usman Tar, disclosed plans to resettle an additional 3,000 displaced families in Malam Fatori, bringing the total number of resettled households to 5,000.
Tar said the government remains committed to ensuring security and stability in the area and urged residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity.