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By Myke Agunwa
As insurgents continue to attack defenseless citizens in various parts of the country, Vice President Kashim Shettima has expressed deep sorrow over the recent terrorist attack in Darajamal community, Bama Local Government Area of Borno State, where many lives, including those of civilians and soldiers, were lost.
It was reported that at least 63 people, including five soldiers, were killed on Friday night when Boko Haram attacked Darajamal, a newly resettled community in Borno State, northeastern Nigeria.
The community which became a stronghold for the terrorists, was abandoned for years even after the military recaptured it.
On July 13, the Borno State government resettled more than 3000 displaced persons from an IDP camp in Bama town into 300 newly constructed housing units in the community. Nearly two months after being resettled to rebuild their lives following several years of displacement, the terrorists struck again.
In a condolence message on Monday by Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications, Office of the Vice President, Stanley Nkwocha, Shettima described the incident as a national tragedy, saying the killings had thrown the entire country into mourning.
“I extend my heartfelt condolences to Governor Babagana Umara Zulum, the people of Borno State, and the Nigerian military over the tragic loss of our compatriots. These deaths have left the entire nation in collective grief, but we are confident that justice will be served for the bereaved families,” Shettima said.
The Vice President assured residents that the Federal Government, under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s leadership, is determined to defeat terrorism.
He recalled the President’s directive to the Armed Forces to review current security operations and deploy advanced military hardware and surveillance equipment to strengthen the fight against insurgent groups across the country.
Shettima also reiterated the government’s consideration of establishing state police, in line with President Tinubu’s position that some security challenges require specialised local units with knowledge of terrain and culture to effectively safeguard communities.
The Vice President joined in offering prayers for the repose of the victims’ souls and assured the people of Borno of the administration’s continued support in restoring peace and stability.