UN Reframes Borno Rice Farmers’ Death Toll from ‘Over 110’ to ‘Tens of Civilians’

In what seems like a walk back on earlier claims that over 110 farmers were killed in the attack on rice field in Borno State by Boko Haram, the United Nations issued another statement on Monday by the saying ‘tens of civilians’ were killed in the incident.

The UN had on Sunday came out with an alarming figure of 110 farmers killed in Saturday’s attack against the figure given by the Nigerian government claiming that 43 persons were killed.

Surprisingly the UN on Monday though not withdrawing the early claim of over 110 death toll, stated that tens of civilians were killed.

Monday’s statement by the United Nations Resident Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, Edward Kallon read: “I am outraged and horrified by the gruesome attack against civilians carried out by non-state armed groups in villages near Borno State capital Maiduguri.

“Tens of civilians were ruthlessly killed and many others were wounded in this attack.”

Kallon added that: “In early afternoon of 28 November, armed men on motorcycles led a brutal attack on civilian men and women who were harvesting their fields in Koshobe and other rural communities in Jere Local Government Area. Reports we are receiving are indicating these innocent farmers were the victims of this callous violence.

“I extend my sincere condolences to the families of the civilians who lost their lives in this atrocious attack. I also wish a speedy recovery to those who were wounded in the incident.”

He said: “We have also received reports that several women may have been kidnapped. I call for their immediate release and return to safety,” adding that:
“My thoughts are also with the rural communities in the area, who are shocked by the brutality of yesterday’s attack and fear for their safety.”

Kallon said: “The entire UN system and the humanitarian community working to provide life-saving and development assistance to the most vulnerable in Borno State is outraged by the incident. Such direct attacks against innocent civilians jeopardize the ability for the most vulnerable people to survive the adversity there are facing, and which we are striving to alleviate.”

He however said. “The incident is the most violent direct attack against innocent civilians this year. I call for the perpetrators of this heinous and senseless act to be brought to justice.

“It is unfortunately one of too many such attacks targeting farmers, fishermen and families who are trying to recover some livelihood opportunity after over a decade of conflict.

“I strongly condemn this attack and any act of violence against innocent civilians and I firmly urge all actors on the ground to respect international laws and humanity.

“Rural communities in Borno State are facing untold hardships. Helping them to farm land and rebuild livelihoods are amongst our priorities and the only way to avoid the looming food crisis in Borno State. They and all other civilians need to be protected and spared from any kind of violence.

“Innocent women, children and men desperately need food and other support and assistance, particularly at a time when we are recording some of the highest levels of food insecurity in Borno State. We owe to do our utmost to help them survive these difficult times.”

Michael Olugbode in Maiduguri

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