Survivors Share Ordeals Following Mafa Mosque Attack

Witnesses from the tragic Boko Haram raid on a mosque in Mafa village, located in Yobe State, have shared their harrowing experiences, crediting their survival to what they believe was divine intervention.

Mafa is situated near the hometown of the late Boko Haram leader Sheikh Abubakar Shekau, according to reports from Vanguard.

The attack took place last Sunday around 4 PM as worshippers were finishing their Asir prayers. The attackers disrupted the service by separating the elderly and herdsmen from the gathered congregation before opening fire.

Sources indicated that the assault was a retaliatory measure following a raid by security forces and local volunteers on one of Boko Haram’s hideouts, resulting in the death of one of their commanders and several fighters terrorizing the area.

On Tuesday, Yobe State’s Deputy Governor, Idi Barde Gubana, along with other government officials and community leaders, attended the burial of 34 victims at the General Hospital in Babbangida. Additionally, over 50 bodies that were too deteriorated or disfigured for transport faced a mass burial back in Mafa.

Gubana, representing Governor Mai Mala Buni, who was out of the country, offered N30 million to the victims’ families and the injured during the visit. He expressed his condolences and prayed for the deceased and speedy recovery for the injured.

In response, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, along with the Northern Governors’ Forum and military leaders, condemned the attack, promising an increase in military presence in Yobe to combat ongoing Boko Haram threats.

One survivor, who requested anonymity, recounted narrowly escaping the attack. “I was fortunate to leave the mosque early and saw the insurgents waiting; although they tried to stop me, I managed to run,” he shared. “We counted approximately 87 bodies left behind, while others were recovered as people fled to safety in the bush. Unfortunately, no security personnel appeared at the scene during or after the attack.”

Grateful for his survival, he expressed his hopes to marry soon. Another survivor, identified only as Mallam Ali Isiaka, mourned his son’s death but praised God for sparing his life. He urged security forces to enhance their support since the community relies mainly on agriculture.

“I thank Allah for everything and pray that the souls of the departed—including my son—find peace in Aljannatul Firdaus,” he stated. “Most residents here are farmers and herders. It is unfortunate that many fled their homes following the attack, abandoning their agricultural lands out of fear of further violence.”

“We are appealing to the government and security agencies for help to ensure the safety of lives and property in Mafa and the Tarmuwa area,” he added.

Our correspondent noted that while security forces in the region had been engaged in combating terrorism, the local community felt they were inadequately protected, especially after this recent attack linked to suspicions that some residents were reporting insurgent activities.