In yet another tragic turn of events, Boko Haram insurgents have unleashed fresh terror in Darul Jamal village, Borno State, leaving at least 60 people dead in a brutal nighttime assault.
According to eyewitness accounts, the attackers, believed to be members of the Jama’atu Ahlis Sunna Lidda’awati wal-Jihad (JAS) faction, stormed the community late at night, shooting indiscriminately and setting homes ablaze. The victims were primarily returnees who had previously been displaced by earlier waves of insurgency but had recently resettled in the area under government-supported programs.
Tragically, the attack not only claimed dozens of lives but also forced over 100 survivors to flee, becoming displaced for the second time in just a few years. The destruction left behind has plunged the community into mourning, with many families searching for missing relatives.
Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum, condemned the attack and assured residents that government would scale up security presence and humanitarian relief. In his words:
“This is an unacceptable tragedy. Our people cannot continue to live in fear of being attacked in their own homes. We will strengthen security deployments and ensure immediate relief materials are sent to survivors.”
The massacre underscores the enduring challenge of terrorism in northeastern Nigeria, despite military offensives and government initiatives aimed at restoring peace. Security experts warn that Boko Haram remains a potent threat, exploiting remote communities with limited protection.
Humanitarian organizations have also raised alarms over the worsening situation. With thousands already living in overcrowded camps across Borno, fresh displacement places even greater strain on relief agencies struggling to provide food, shelter, and medical care.
As Nigeria continues to grapple with the insurgency that has lasted more than a decade, questions are being raised about the effectiveness of counterterrorism strategies and the safety of resettled communities.
For the survivors of Darul Jamal, however, the immediate concern is rebuilding shattered lives while hoping for genuine security and peace.