The United Nations (UN) has condemned Saturday’s attack on civilians, aid workers and facility in Monguno, Borno State.
Many civilians, including a four-year-old girl, were killed and several others injured.
UN Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, Edward Kallon, in a statement on Sunday, commiserated with the victims.
“Those who were injured are also in my thoughts and I wish them a speedy recovery. I am appalled by the continued violent attacks launched by non-state armed groups in civilian areas in Borno State.”
Boko Haram terrorists, aboard light trucks mounted with heavy artillery, raided Goni Usmanti community in Nganzai LGA.
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They penetrated Monguno around 11:45 a.m. from two different entry points, resulting in clashes with the military which lasted for about two hours.
The assailants reached the humanitarian hub, where over 50 aid workers were present at the time of the attack.
The UN official said though the facility only sustained light damage, reports indicate it was directly targeted.
UN and INGO vehicles in front of the facility, which included humanitarian offices and accommodation, were set ablaze.
The statement disclosed that security measures prevented any harm to the staff inside and that unexploded projectile was found at the gate.
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“I am relieved all staff are safe and secure, but I am shocked by the intensity of this attack. It is the latest of too many clashes affecting civilians, humanitarian actors and the assistance we provide.
“Civilians and aid workers, their facilities and assets should never be a target and must be protected and respected at all times. I continue to call on all parties to respect and protect civilians and humanitarian personnel in accordance with international humanitarian law.”
In January, an humanitarian hub in Ngala, near the border to Cameroon, was attacked.
UN said the incidents impede the ability for aid workers to stay and deliver assistance to the people most in need in these remote areas.
Aid organisations providing assistance to over 150,000 internally displaced persons in Monguno.
Earlier, Kallon condemned the June 9 Boko Haram onslaught on Felo village in Gubio Local Government Area.
Terrorists aboard motorcycles stormed Felo community, killed over 80 civilians and wounded many.
NAN