MAIDGURI, Nigeria (AP) – Suspected members of the Islamic militant group Boko Haram have killed at least 40 rice farmers and fishermen while harvesting crops in Nigeria’s northern Borno state, officials say.
The attack took place on Saturday in Garin Kwashebe, a Borno community known for its rice farming, the day residents of the state voted for local government council elections for the first time in 13 years, though many did not go. To cast their vote.
The farmers were reportedly arrested and killed shortly after by armed rebels.
Malam Zabrari, a leader of a rice farmers’ organization in Borno state, confirmed the massacre to the Associated Press.
“Farmers were attacked in the Green-Kwashebi rice field of the Zabarmari community, and according to reports reaching us in the afternoon, about 40 of them were killed,” he said, adding that the death toll had risen to about 60. Can.
Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari has expressed sorrow over the killing.
“I condemn the killing of our hardworking farmers by terrorists in Borno State. The whole country is saddened by this stupid murder. My thoughts are with their families in these times of grief. May their souls find peace, ”he said.
Buhari said the government has given all necessary support to the armed forces, “to take all necessary steps to protect the country’s population and its territory.”
Ahmed Satomi, a member of the House of Representatives, who represents the Jere Federal constituency in Borno, said at least 44 funerals were taking place on Sunday.
“Farmers and fishermen were killed in cold blood. More than 600 farmers were affected, but we have found 44 bodies from the farms alone and by the grace of God we are preparing for their Sunday funeral today, ”the federal legislator said.
The Islamic State of West Africa province, Boko Haram and a breakaway group, are both active in the region. More than a decade of Boko Haram insurgency has killed thousands and displaced thousands. Officials say Boko Haram members are forcing villagers to pay illegal taxes on their livestock or crops. But some villagers have started resisting this extortion.
Satomi said the farmers of Garin Kwashebe were attacked because they were armed and arrested a Boko Haram gunman on Friday, who tortured them.
“The lone gunman, who was a member of Boko Haram, came to harass the farmers by giving them money and ordering them to cook for him. While he was waiting to cook, he stepped into the toilet to snatch his rifle and tied it up. ‘
“They later handed him over to security. But unfortunately, the security forces did not protect the courageous farmer. And in return for their courage, Boko Haram gathered and came to attack their farms. “
The rebels also set fire to rice fields before leaving, he said.
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AP journalist Bashir Adigu in Abuja contributed to the report.
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