Jutha Gupah, Maiduguri
The UN Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, Edward Kallon, has condemned the violent attacks by non-state armed groups in Monguno and Nganzai councils of Borno state. In Saturday’s multiple attacks, many civilians were also killed, including a four-year old girl. In a statement Sunday in Maiduguri, Kallon said: “At least 37 other civilians were injured and a major humanitarian facility was also set ablaze. “I am deeply saddened by the news that many civilians, including an innocent child, lost their lives in these horrific attacks.
In condolence message to family members of victims, he said: “My deepest condolences go to their family. “Those who were injured are also in my thoughts and I wish them a speedy recovery.” “I am appalled by the continued violent attacks launched by non-state armed groups in civilian areas in Borno State.” On how a community was attacked, he said: “On 13 June, non-state armed group operatives aboard light trucks mounted with heavy artillery raided Goni Usmanti community in Nganzai LGA before penetrating the town of Monguno around 11.45 a.m. “The insurgents entered through two different entry points, resulting in clashes with the military which lasted for about two hours. “The armed assailants reached the humanitarian hub, where over 50 aid workers were present at the time of the attack.” He said even though the facility only sustained light damage, initial reports indicate it was directly targeted and an unexploded projectile was found at the gate.
According to him; “All UN and INGO vehicles in front of the humanitarian hub, comprising humanitarian offices and accommodation, were torched. “Protective security measures deployed at the hub prevented any harm to the staff inside.” “I am relieved all staff are safe and secure, but I am shocked by the intensity of this attack. It is the latest of too many clashes affecting civilians, humanitarian actors and the assistance we provide.” “Civilians and aid workers, their facilities and assets should never be a target and must be protected and respected at all times.” he warned; while calling on all parties to respect and protect civilians and humanitarian personnel. According to him, the respect and protection; should also be in accordance with international humanitarian law. While lamenting on incessant attacks, Kallon noted: “On 18 January, another humanitarian hub in the town of Ngala, near the border to Cameroon, was the target of a complex assault by non-state armed groups. “An entire section of the facility was burned down as well as one of the few vehicles UN agencies rely on for the delivery of aid. He added that the humanitarian hubs, managed by International Organisation for Migration (IOM) for the humanitarian community, are critical to reaching the most vulnerable in insecure areas in Borno.
According to him, they enable aid workers to deliver assistance and carry out life-saving activities in remote locations amid challenging operational environments. He also noted that such incidents impede the ability for aid workers to stay and deliver assistance to the people most in need in these remote areas. He said already, 25 aid organisations are providing assistance to more than 150,000 internally displaced persons in the town of Monguno in Borno state. He said besides bringing urgent aid, the UN and NGO partners are curtailing the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic in Northeast states of Borno, Adamawa and Yobe. He said Over 10.6 million in insurgency affected states needed humanitarian intervention and assistance.
