Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator of the United Nations in Nigeria, Mr. Edward Kallon, in a statement Tuesday, said he was gravely preoccupied by reports of a violent attack by non-state armed groups on Dikwa, in Borno State, northeast Nigeria. during which aid facilities were directly targeted.
According to him, the attack started on Monday night, adding that the premises of several aid agencies and a hospital were reportedly set ablaze or damaged.
He said: “I strongly condemn the attack and am deeply concerned about the safety and security of civilians in Dikwa, including internally displaced people inside and outside camps and thousands of people who had returned to the community to rebuild their lives after years of displacement.
“This violent attack will affect the support provided to nearly 100,000 people who are desperately in need of humanitarian assistance and protection, particularly as the COVID-19 pandemic risks spreading in Borno State.
“Civilians and aid workers, their facilities and assets should never be a target. They must be protected and respected at all times. I call on all armed parties to immediately stop the violence and respect international humanitarian law and human rights law, and ensure the protection of civilians, humanitarian property and personnel.”
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