Suspected Boko Haram fighters attacked Bitirhuya community in Hong Local Government Area of Adamawa State on Sunday between 5pm and 6pm, killing four residents and burning several houses. The attackers arrived on motorcycles, firing sporadically and causing panic as villagers fled for safety. The incident occurred just days after another attack in Nzangola village in Gombi Local Government Area, where 12 people were killed.
Hon. Aliyu Sa'ad Yerima Hong, Chairman of Hong Local Government Council, confirmed the attack after visiting the community. He expressed condolences to the families of the deceased and pledged government efforts to improve security. He urged residents to report suspicious movements and warned that anyone found aiding insurgents or undermining peace would face legal consequences. Locals have appealed to federal and state authorities to increase security measures to stop further attacks and protect rural communities.
The local government chairman warns against harbouring insurgents days after terrorists struck twice in separate communities, raising questions about the effectiveness of existing security measures. Residents remain vulnerable despite official assurances, with attacks occurring within a week and in different local government areas. The repeated breaches suggest current interventions may not be matching the scale or mobility of the threat.
Editorial note: AI-assisted opinion. All persons mentioned are presumed innocent until proven guilty. Full disclaimer →
