Boko Haram Strikes Again in Chibok, Burning Church and Homes

On January 14, 2025, suspected Boko Haram militants attacked the Shikarkir community in the Chibok Local Government Area of Borno State, setting ablaze a church and ten houses.

This incident happened just two days following another assault on the Bazir village in Chibok, where two individuals lost their lives and a church was also burned down.

ASP Nahum Daso, the spokesperson for the State Police Command, confirmed the Bazir incident but stated he had not received details about the attack in Shikarkir.

“On January 12, 2025, at approximately 2 am, Boko Haram attacked Bazir Village, resulting in two fatalities, the destruction of over 30 houses, and the AYN church,” the PPRO reported.

“Calm has returned, security measures have been reinforced, and our Chief of Police has deployed personnel for intelligence gathering to assess the situation, collaborating with other security forces to ensure community safety.”

One affected resident, Mallam Daniel Shikarkir, shared that his elderly parents managed to escape safely from their burning home.

“Just days prior, a similar attack left our neighboring village in ruins, forcing many to seek refuge elsewhere,” he remarked.

“Earlier this month, on January 2, Boko Haram raided Njiland, and the assaults have persisted.”

“On January 12, they struck Bamzir, claiming two young lives and injuring a woman, while also destroying homes, shops, and the EYN church.”

The recent assaults on Njiland and Shikarkir have raised significant concerns for the community.

“Even with over 1,000 military personnel and 500 local vigilante members stationed in Chibok Town, these attacks continue with frightening regularity.”

“There is an urgent need for enhanced security to protect our community. We are urging our leaders, including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum, Southern Borno Senator Mohammed Ndume, House Representative Hon. Usman Jaha Babawo, and relevant security agencies to take swift action to resolve this crisis.”

“We call for the deployment of military forces and local vigilantes to surround Chibok Town, ensuring the safety of our residents.”

“The citizens of Chibok no longer feel secure at home, and our leaders must take responsibility for our protection. We deserve the right to live in peace, and we implore our leaders to act decisively to uphold this right,” he concluded.