Borno State was thrown into mourning this weekend after Boko Haram insurgents launched a deadly attack on Darajamal, Bama Local Government Area, killing no fewer than 63 people, including five soldiers and about 58 civilians.
The victims, mostly displaced persons recently resettled in Darajamal just two months ago, were struck down late Friday night in what residents described as one of the most harrowing assaults in recent times.
Governor Babagana Umara Zulum, visibly shaken by the scale of the tragedy, paid a condolence visit to the community on Saturday. He sat with grieving families, consoled them, and condemned the massacre in the strongest terms.
“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,” the governor told newsmen. “This community was resettled only a few months ago. They were going about their normal activities, but unfortunately, Boko Haram struck again.”
Confirming the toll, Zulum said, “At this moment, we have established that 63 people lost their lives — close to 60 civilians and 5 soldiers. The civilian casualties are more.”
The governor, while acknowledging the enormity of insecurity challenges in Borno, pressed for immediate reinforcement of security architecture in vulnerable areas. He called for the urgent deployment of newly trained Forest Guards to complement the overstretched military.
“The numerical strength of the military is not enough to cover everywhere,” Zulum stressed. “Two sets of Forest Guards have been trained already. Deploying them to vulnerable locations will help secure our forests and communities.”
Also lending his voice, Senator Kaka Shehu Lawan, representing Borno Central where the attack occurred, condemned the killings, branding them “a crime against humanity.” He pledged to back Governor Zulum through legislative measures that would support peace restoration in Borno State.
The Darajamal tragedy underscores the continuing human cost of insurgency in the Northeast, even as displaced communities strive to rebuild shattered lives.
About The Author
