The Borno State Government has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic attack on Malamfatori, a border town in Abadam Local Government Area of the state, which claimed the lives of nine residents and left four others severely injured.
In an official statement released yesterday, the government described the attack as a sad and condemnable event that underscores the continued security challenges facing some parts of the state.
The affected community, located approximately 272 kilometres from Maiduguri, lies near the Nigeria-Niger Republic border and has witnessed occasional unrest due to its location.
In a demonstration of compassion and commitment, Governor Babagana Umara Zulum, who is currently outside the country on an official assignment, sent a delegation to visit the grieving community. The team was led by the Commissioner for Local Government and Emirate Affairs, Sugun Mele.
During the visit, Mele conveyed the governor’s heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and to the people of Malamfatori as a whole. On behalf of the state government, he also distributed cash relief to the affected families to assist with immediate needs.
“We are here at the instance of His Excellency, Governor Babagana Umara Zulum, who is out of the country on an official engagement, to sympathize with the people of Malamfatori over this unfortunate incident,” Mele said during the visit.
“The governor has instructed us to assure you that the Borno State Government, in collaboration with the Nigerian military, will intensify efforts to secure the town and prevent future attacks.”
He reaffirmed the state’s unwavering commitment to supporting all communities affected by violence and reiterated that Governor Zulum remains resolute in his determination to restore peace and normalcy across Borno State.
“We’ll do everything to secure and continue to protect the border town, 286 kilometres north of Maiduguri, the state capital. Malam Fatori was severely attacked by Boko Haram and Islamic State West African Province (ISWAP) terrorists.”
Security forces have since been alerted, and surveillance in the area has reportedly been increased to forestall any further violence.
The attack has sparked renewed concerns over the security challenges plaguing Nigeria’s northeastern border regions, underscoring the need for sustained vigilance and robust security interventions.