Nigerian Army confirms Boko Haram attack near Chibok

Nigerian Army confirms Boko Haram attack near Chibok

The Nigeria Army has confirmed an attack by suspected Boko Haram insurgents on Kuburvwa village of Chibok local government areas of Borno on Monday.

It said the attack was carried out by a group of “hungry” Boko Haram gunmen that were out to scavenge for food.

The spokesperson for the army, Sani Usman, said in a statement on Tuesday that the attacks did not lead to any loss of life, and that it was repelled.

Different Media had Monday night reported an ongoing attack on the community.

The insurgents, according to local vigilante operatives, set houses ablaze after villagers fled their homes.

Mr. Usman said in a statement Tuesday that more villages were also attacked by the gunmen. He however said the attackers were repelled by the troops deployed in the area.

BBC Hausa reported that the insurgents had hoisted their flags in the attacked communities.

But an official of the local vigilante, Abbas Gava, confirmed the attack on Monday, at claim.

Mr. Usman said suspected elements of Boko Haram terrorists attacked Kwang village and vigilantes from Dagu (which is about 4 kilometres from Kwang), responded and repelled the terrorists attack.

“During the fire fight that ensued, one of the vigilantes sustained gunshot wound on his hand and was evacuated to General Hospital Uba while the terrorists fled with gunshot wounds.

“Troops were eventually dispatched to the area with clear orders to pursue and deal with the terrorists. They are still exploiting,” he said.

“Similarly, same day, at about 4.35pm some suspected remnants of Boko Haram terrorists attacked Boftari which is about 15 kilometres from Chibok town.

“On receipt of the information, troops of Operation LAFIYA DOLE stationed in Forward Operation Base Chibok, mobilized to the area.

“The troops encountered Boko Haram terrorists ambush site shortly before Kuburmbula village. They quickly cleared the ambush and proceeded to Boftari.

“Unfortunately, the terrorists had set some houses on fire and fled. The troops put out the fire and are currently on the hunt for the terrorists.

“It is imperative to state that contrary to rumours flying around some media reports, no life was lost.

“Additionally, there is no presence of the terrorists in any of the villages talk less of hoisting flags as alleged. The troops have continued to maintain high level of vigilance.”