Governor of Borno State, Babagana Zulum, has confirmed the killing of over 32 youths by the Islamic State West African Province (ISWAP) terrorists in Kala/Balge Council of the State.
According to him, the youths were killed, while they were scavenging for steel scraps in some of the abandoned border villages with Cameroon last Sunday.
Spokesman to the Governor, Isa Gusau, stated this Wednesday in Maiduguri, adding that 14 bodies have been recovered.
He further stated that six other youths were injured, while others escaped unhurt in the border communities with Cameroon.
“Governor Babagana Umara Zulum is very disturbed by the unfortunate killing of fellow citizens at the weekend.
“Pending a full report, the Governor was briefed by the Majority Leader of Borno State House of Assembly, Mohammed Dige, who represents Kala-Balge where the victims hailed from,” he lamented.
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He noted that the youths were not farmers, but enterprising young men engaged in gathering metals popularly called ‘Kayan Ajaokuta’ which are sold as raw materials for steel production.
Continuing, he said that the victims were said to have gone to a deserted Mudu village in Dikwa LGA, 45 kilometers from Rann, the council headquarters in search of raw materials of steel.
According to him, soldiers alongside the Chairman of Kala-Balge LGA, on Tuesday, recovered 14 bodies of victims who were apparently tied and shot at close range.
“Governor Zulum shares deeply the pains of bereaved families and the good people of Kala-Balge,” Gusau said.
He added that the governor is awaiting a full report before necessary measures are taken.
