The Chairman of Hong Local Government Area in Adamawa State, Usman Wa’anganda, has confirmed that 17 people have lost their lives in a series of attacks over the past two weeks.
Addressing a group of journalists on Monday in Yola, Wa’anganda disclosed that the latest assault occurred on Saturday, April 26, 2025, when Boko Haram insurgents invaded Kopre village, killing at least 10 local hunters and members of the Civilian Joint Task Force.
He explained that the attackers, riding motorcycles and heavily armed, overwhelmed the village’s defenders with superior firepower during the raid, which took place around 4:00 p.m.
The chairman, visibly distressed, said the assault left several homes burnt and heightened the sense of fear among residents who have long endured repeated attacks.
“Kopre shares a border with the Sambisa forest, making it a frequent target for Boko Haram incursions,” Wa’anganda said. “We only have hunters defending the community; there are no soldiers or any form of security presence. Even when we call for help, none arrives.”
He acknowledged the Adamawa State Government’s efforts to empower local vigilantes but stressed that stronger measures were urgently needed to secure the area.
“The security situation is disheartening,” he lamented. “I urge the government to deploy a battalion here so that our people can safely return to their homes and farms.”
Kopre, the hometown of former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Boss Mustapha, once had military protection stationed in nearby Garaha during Mustapha’s tenure. However, the troops were withdrawn following his exit from office.