A group of soldiers and civilians on a mission to recover the bodies of 40 farmers killed on Saturday in Dumba, located in Baga, Kukawa Local Government Area of Borno State, were ambushed by fighters from the Islamic State’s West Africa Province (ISWAP) on Tuesday.
According to local and security sources, an unspecified number of soldiers and 54 civilians, including hunters, vigilantes, and members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), remain unaccounted for.
A CJTF member revealed that only one of the civilians involved in the operation had returned to Baga.
The returning individual was reportedly too shaken to recount the details of the attack.
Witnesses said the soldiers attempted to resist the ambush but were outmatched by the insurgents’ numbers and firepower.
Another security source disclosed that some reinforcement troops managed to escape and return to their base.
The troops reportedly encountered the bodies of slain farmers on their way to Dumba. They were able to bury 15 corpses before the ambush forced them to retreat.
Over 70 civilians had initially joined the recovery mission, but only a few have since returned.
In a subsequent engagement, the military clashed with the attackers.
A local fisherman confirmed seeing fighter jets providing air support to ground forces during the intense exchange of gunfire, forcing nearby residents to flee for safety.
Community Pleads for Protection
Farmers in Baga have appealed to the government for evacuation to safer areas until security is restored.
They revealed that access to their farmlands and fishing zones often requires paying “levies” to the terrorists.
Governor Zulum Visits Affected Area
Borno State Governor Babagana Umara Zulum visited Baga to console the residents. He praised the military for their efforts but criticized them for permitting farmers into restricted zones.
The governor also urged farmers and fishermen to avoid unsafe areas while continuing their work within secure zones.
Amnesty International Calls for Justice
Isa Sanusi, Director of Amnesty International Nigeria, condemned the killings and called for greater civilian protection.
He emphasized the need for accountability, stating that Boko Haram’s actions demonstrate a blatant disregard for human life and international humanitarian laws.
Amnesty International’s findings revealed that the terrorists executed farmers and fishermen after separating the men, with some being shot at close range while others were pursued and killed as they tried to flee.
The organization urged authorities to ensure justice and reparations for the victims’ families.
