23 Farmers and Fishermen Killed in Borno as Violence by Militants…

In Borno state, Nigeria, suspected Islamist militants killed at least 23 farmers and fishermen in a recent attack. The violence highlights the enduring threat from Boko Haram and its affiliates. Efforts to recover bodies were thwarted, with earlier security gains in the region now seemingly reversed. This incident follows a broader trend of kidnappings and attacks that plague northern Nigeria, raising concerns over safety and security measures.

In a tragic incident this week in Nigeria’s Borno state, at least 23 farmers and fishermen were murdered by suspected militants, according to reports from Reuters. This attack, which took place in the village of Malam Karanti on Thursday morning, is part of a longer cycle of violence that has plagued northeastern Nigeria, largely attributed to the terrorist group Boko Haram and its affiliate, Islamic State West Africa Province.

Residents and security sources indicated that the militants gathered the farmers and fishermen before carrying out the killings. Local resident Sani Auwal recounted that an elderly man was spared and later informed the community of the massacre. Another resident, Usman Ali, reported that efforts to recover the deceased were thwarted as militants threatened them back.

Borno’s governor had previously acknowledged a troubling resurgence of violence and abductions by Boko Haram, suggesting a worrying trend that seems to undermine earlier security progress. The latest assault illustrates the ongoing struggle in the region, where people face relentless threats from armed groups.

Notably, this event comes on the heels of another severe incident last month, which resulted in the deaths of at least 44 individuals during an armed assault at a mosque. This kind of violence has fostered an environment of fear and uncertainty across the region.

Adding to the tragedy of violence in Nigeria, last year saw the kidnapping of over 200 schoolchildren from the northern town of Kuriga—marking one of the biggest mass abductions since 2021. Local officials revealed that the attackers initially abducted 100 primary school students but some managed to escape, while the remaining children were held hostage, prompting fears amongst parents regarding security.

Kidnappings for ransom have unfortunately become commonplace in northern Nigeria, severely disrupting daily activities and preventing many children from receiving an education. The last significant case involved more than 150 students taken in Kaduna back in July 2021. After months of negotiation, the families finally secured their children’s return by paying the required ransoms.

The cycle of violence in Nigeria seems unending, with communities living in constant fear of attacks and abductions. Security measures need serious reevaluation, as these incidents highlight the failures to safeguard both lives and education in the region.

The recent massacre of farmers and fishermen in Borno state demonstrates the continuing threat posed by Islamist militants in northeastern Nigeria. As violence increases and kidnappings proliferate, the need for effective security measures is more urgent than ever. Despite previous gains against armed groups, the recent attacks and mass abductions underscore the persistent challenges facing civilians and authorities alike.

Original Source: english.jagran.com