THE COALITION of Northern Groups (CNG), has condemned recent attacks in Borno and Zamfara states, describing it as “senseless acts of violence” that have devastated families and communities across Northern Nigeria.
The group emphasized the need for a review of security procedures to prevent future mistakes and mitigate the risks to innocent lives in counter-terrorism efforts.
National Coordinator of CNG, Comrade Jamilu Aliyu Charanchu, decried the killing of 40 farmers in Borno State by suspected members of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists in Kukawa Local Government Area.
The group extended condolences to the affected families and state governments, calling the tragedies both devastating and avoidable.
Charanchu said: “Borno State, the heinous killing of 40 farmers by suspected members of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists in Kukawa Local Government Area near Daban Leda is yet another grim reminder of the persistent threat posed by extremist elements Boko Haram.
“This senseless act of violence has deprived families of their loved ones, communities of their breadwinners, and our nation of hardworking citizens striving to sustain their livelihoods.
“Similarly, in Zamfara State, the accidental killing of 16 civilians during an airstrike at Tungar Kara, where members of a local vigilance group were mistakenly identified as fleeing bandits from Gidan Makera in the Boko district of Zurmi Local Government Area, is a tragic and regrettable occurrence.
“This unfortunate incident stresses the urgent need for a comprehensive review of operational procedures to prevent further collateral damage in the fight against insecurity.
“The CNG hereby stand in solidarity with the affected families and communities, sharing in their grief and praying for the repose of the souls of the departed. We urge the governments of Borno and Zamfara States to provide immediate support and succor to the families of the victims.
“We call on the Federal Government to launch a thorough and transparent investigation to ascertain the circumstances surrounding this unfortunate incident. While the CNG calls for those found culpable for lapses to be held accountable, measures must be put in place to avoid a recurrence.”
CNG also noted that the recent events highlight the urgent need for the Federal Government and security operatives to redouble efforts to eliminate the remnants of terrorist groups and bandits operating in Borno, Zamfara, and other affected states.
He added, “This must include sustained intelligence gathering, robust community engagement, and the deployment of modern technology to ensure precision in security operations. Security agencies must foster stronger partnerships with local communities and vigilante groups to enhance operational effectiveness and reduce the risk of misidentification.”
The CNG also reminded President Bola Tinubu that the responsibility for these challenges lies with his administration and that the verdict of the Nigerian people will be passed in 2027.
The group prayed for the peaceful repose of the souls of the deceased and for the strength of their families to endure these irreparable losses.