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Statement by the Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, Mohamed Malick Fall, on the killing of scores of men and boys in Mafa, Yobe State

UNOCHA - United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs

ABUJA, 11 September 2024 -- I am deeply disturbed by reports of the brutal killing of at least 128 men and boys in Mafa, in Yobe State's Tarmuwa Local Government Area (LGA), on 1 September.
The attack was perpetrated by a non-state armed group (NSAG), according to local authorities.

Many other people including women and children were also reportedly injured in the attack.
State Government authorities are verifying the numbers of the dead, injured and missing, with casualties suspected to be higher.

During the attack, the NSAGs reportedly also burnt down shelters, businesses and other property, and planted improvised explosive devices along roads leading to Mafa town.

On behalf of the United Nations in Nigeria, I convey my deepest condolences to the families that lost their loved ones and wish the injured a speedy recovery. The United Nations stands in solidarity with the people and the Government of Yobe State during this difficult time.

I condemn this heinous attack in the strongest terms and remind all parties to the conflict to adhere to their obligations under international humanitarian law to protect civilians from harm. The armed actors who perpetrated these attacks must be identified and brought to account - in compliance with international human rights law - as a first step towards reining in the impunity that feeds these attacks.

The deadly attack forced thousands of people to flee from Mafa to Babban Gida, the headquarters of Tarmuwa LGA, and to other neighbouring communities, with some people walking for hours in search of safety. Most of the displaced are seeking shelter in Babban Gida, and in the Nayinawa and Kalallawa communities of Damaturu LGA. Others fled to neighbouring Borno State, particularly to the areas of Gubio, Benisheik, Auno, Monguno, and Maiduguri.

The Yobe State Emergency Management Authority, in collaboration with the Nigerian Red Cross, is conducting a rapid needs assessment to inform the humanitarian response. The United Nations and the State Government are also planning a joint mission to Mafa and Babban Gida in the coming days.
The United Nations is on standby to provide assistance as needed.

END