Boko Haram Kills 40+ in Nigeria Attack
Targeted killings in Borno State highlight ongoing insecurity and humanitarian crisis.

Source: Amnesty International / Image: Amnesty International
On January 12, Boko Haram militants killed over 40 civilians in attacks on farming communities in Borno State, northeast Nigeria. Reports reveal that the attackers encircled farmers and fishermen, separating men and executing them at close range. Those who attempted to flee were pursued and killed, leaving dozens injured. The search for bodies continues, while mass burials are being arranged for the deceased.
In addition to these targeted killings, Boko Haram continues to abduct women and girls and loot property on a large scale. These atrocities, unfortunately frequent, highlight the urgent need to enhance civilian protection and ensure justice and compensation for the victims and their families.
The attacks occurred near Dumba, a community close to Baga in Borno State, where Boko Haram fighters massacred over 40 farmers and fishermen. According to a local resident, several people remain missing, and many others are injured. Since 2020, Boko Haram has increasingly targeted farmers and fishermen around Lake Chad.
A Worsening Humanitarian Crisis
According to the United Nations, the armed conflict in northeast Nigeria has been ongoing since at least 2011, leading to a humanitarian crisis with over 2 million people displaced. Amnesty International has repeatedly documented crimes under international law and other grave violations of international human rights and humanitarian law committed by both Boko Haram and the Nigerian military in the context of this conflict.
The recent attack underscores the persistent insecurity and the dire need for measures to protect civilians and address the ongoing humanitarian challenges in the region.