By Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri has condoled with residents of Shuwari community in Kirchinga Ward of Madagali Local Government Area following a deadly attack by Boko Haram insurgents that claimed 18 lives and destroyed properties.
The Governor, who visited the grieving community after the Tuesday evening assault, described the attack as barbaric, senseless and unjustifiable. The insurgents reportedly set houses ablaze and rustled livestock during the raid, leaving the community in mourning.
Shuwari lies on the fringes of the dreaded Sambisa Forest, long known as a hideout for insurgent groups. Governor Fintiri assured residents that his administration would not allow any part of the state to be overrun by terrorists or abandoned due to fear. He stressed that decisive measures would be taken to prevent insurgents from reclaiming or occupying any territory within Adamawa State.
The Governor pledged full support to families affected by the tragedy and promised to reinforce security in the area by strengthening the local security architecture. According to him, forest guards, hunters and vigilante groups would be properly equipped and supported to complement the efforts of conventional security agencies.
He also called for improved synergy and intelligence sharing between the Nigerian Army and local security outfits to ensure coordinated patrols and swift responses to emerging threats.
Earlier, the Chairman of Madagali Local Government Area, Hon. Simon Shashi, confirmed that the attack occurred on Tuesday, February 24, resulting in 18 deaths. He disclosed that three houses were burnt and several cattle rustled, while six persons sustained injuries. Five of the injured victims have since been treated and discharged, while one remains hospitalised at the General Hospital in Michika.
Also speaking, the Head of Operations at the Yola Office of the National Emergency Management Agency, Ladan Ayuba, confirmed the casualty figures and said the agency was conducting an on-the-spot assessment in Shuwari to facilitate the provision of relief materials to affected victims.
