Jutha Gupah, Maiduguri
August 17, 2017.
The United Nations Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, Mr. Edward
Kallon has condemned the series of terrorists’ attacks” in Konduga of
Borno state, to mark World Humanitarian Day at Bakassi camp of
Maiduguri metropolis.
The several Boko Haram attacks and bombings of last Tuesday have
claimed the lives of 27 people with 82 hospitalised in Konduga and
Maiduguri.
Kallon announced the condemnations on Thursday in a statement he
issued to journalists in Maiduguri.
The statement reads: “Every year World Humanitarian Day brings the
world together to rally support for people affected by humanitarian
crisis and pay tribute to aid workers who help them.
“This World Humanitarian Day in Nigeria we come together to reaffirm
that civilians caught in conflict are #Not A Target.
“We are reminded of this by the series of terrorist attacks in
Konduga, Borno State, on Tuesday evening that killed 27 innocent
civilians and wounded over 80 more.
“I condemn this attack and extend my deepest sympathies to the victims
and their families. I also extend my condolences to the Government and
the people of Nigeria.”
He said civilians in the northeast continue to bear the brunt of the conflict.
“Women, men and children face grave human rights violations and sexual
and gender-based violence,” he said.
He said since the start of the conflict in 2009 more than 20,000
people have been killed, while thousands of women and girls have been
abducted and children continue to be used on a regular basis as
so-called “suicide” bombers.
According to him, thousands of families have been forced to flee their
villages, rather than build their homes, livelihoods and communities.
He added: “Health and aid workers, who care for people affected by
violence, are affected by the lack of security, which constrains our
access to desperately vulnerable communities.
“People must be put first. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has
published his first report on the Protection of Civilians,” said
Kallon.
He also called for an enhanced respect for international humanitarian
and human rights law, and protection of civilians, including
humanitarian and medical workers, as well as civilian infrastructure.
“There should be prevention of forced displacement, and durable
solutions for refugees and internally displaced persons. Global
leaders made commitments to uphold the norms that safeguard humanity
at the World Humanitarian Summit last year,” he said.
He urged all parties to the conflict in Nigeria to protect civilians
and prevent further pain and suffering.
