An attack launched by Boko Haram terrorists loyal to Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) in Damasak community of Mobbar Local Government Area of Borno State has left 5 people dead.
Three women, a man and two soldiers lost their lives in the Saturday night, April 10 attack. Locals said the assailants destroyed the United Nations Hub housing all the workers of the international organisation.
Daily Trust reported that the hub was established in Damasak, located 188 from Maiduguri in the northern part of Borno to fast-track support for Boko Haram excesses victims. The town had survived several attacks in the last 11 years.
Insurgents stormed Damasak in the evening and engaged the troops from multiple locations, which led to the burning down of the UN hub and others infrastructures. It was further learnt that while some of the terrorists were engaging the troops at their camps, others were busy burning NGO warehouses near the UN hub.
UN Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, Mr Edward Kallon has also condemned the destruction of their humanitarian hub and other NGOs.
Kallon said in a statement “I am deeply concerned about recurrent reports of violent attacks by non-state armed groups putting the lives of civilians under risks. Last night and through the morning, a violent attack in Damasak town, in Borno State, was reported with three international aid partners’ facilities directly targeted, set ablaze, and sustained damage. I continue to be concerned about the safety and security of civilians and humanitarian workers. I strongly condemn the attack, as humanitarian aid operations and facilities are the lifelines for people affected by violence and conflict in northeast Nigeria who are dependent on assistance to survive. Humanitarian operations in Damasak will be reduced due to the violent attack, which will affect the support of 8,800 internally displaced people and 76,000 people in the host community receiving humanitarian assistance and protection there. Civilians and aid workers, their facilities and assets should never be a target. They must always be protected and respected. I call on armed parties to observe and commit to international humanitarian law and human rights law, and ensure the protection of civilians, humanitarian property, and personnel”