UN Condemns Killing of Civilians in Borno, Urges Justice

The United Nations has condemned the killing of more than 50 civilians in Darajamal village, Bama Local Government Area of Borno State, following an attack by suspected non-state armed groups on Friday, September 5.

In a statement on Sunday, the UN Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, Mohamed Fall, described the incident as appalling, stressing that “civilians should never be a target.”

Preliminary reports indicate that dozens of villagers were killed, an unspecified number abducted, and several others injured during the assault. At least 28 houses were reportedly set ablaze, while survivors fled the community. The casualty figure is expected to rise as more details emerge.

Fall expressed condolences to the families of the victims, the people of Borno State, and the Nigerian government, while wishing the injured a speedy recovery. He called on security agencies to arrest those behind the attack and ensure their swift prosecution, as well as to secure the release of abductees.

“This recent killing of civilians is yet another grim reminder of the toll of rising violent attacks and insecurity in Borno State this year,” he said, noting that hundreds of civilians have been killed in similar assaults across the state.

The UN official highlighted that civilians — including farmers, fishermen, traders, and travelers — have increasingly been targeted in attacks ranging from bombings and ambushes to raids on internally displaced persons (IDP) camps. Similar incidents have also been reported in neighbouring Adamawa and Yobe States.

Reiterating his call for strict adherence to international humanitarian and human rights law, Fall urged all parties in the conflict to protect civilians and their property.

The UN, he assured, remains committed to supporting people affected by the crisis and complementing the government’s response efforts.