At least 14 people lost their lives on Monday evening when suspected Boko Haram fighters stormed the remote village of Kwaple in Chibok Local Government Area of southern Borno State. According to local sources, the heavily armed militants arrived in pickup trucks and opened fire on villagers attending a funeral.

Witnesses say the gunmen attacked at approximately 6 p.m., taking advantage of the large gathering of mourners. The sound of gunfire caused panic, forcing many attendees to flee into surrounding bushes. Despite the effort to escape, 14 mourners were shot dead while others sustained various injuries.

Militants Torch Homes, Church, and Loot Supplies

During the attack, the terrorists destroyed several properties including a local church and at least six houses. They also set shops ablaze and made away with large quantities of food supplies. Three herds of cattle were also killed in the onslaught.

A member of the Civilian Joint Task Force (JTF), who spoke under condition of anonymity, described the scene as horrifying. “They opened fire non-stop. People ran for their lives. They burned down the EYN church, six houses, and looted all our food. The attack lasted nearly two hours,” the source said.

Local Authorities Confirm Fatal Assault

Hon. Modu Mustapha, the Chairman of Chibok Local Government Area, confirmed the deadly incident to reporters. “The attackers invaded during a funeral. Many people were killed, and properties were destroyed,” he stated. The chairman’s confirmation aligns with accounts from community members and Civilian JTF operatives.

This attack marks yet another tragedy for Chibok, a region that has remained under the shadow of insurgency since the abduction of over 200 schoolgirls in 2014 drew international outrage.

Landmine Explosion Kills Soldiers on Maiduguri-Damboa Highway

In a separate attack, tragedy struck again Tuesday morning when an improvised explosive device (IED) detonated along the Maiduguri-Damboa highway around 9:50 a.m. A Civilian JTF member supporting military efforts confirmed that several soldiers lost their lives in the landmine explosion, while others—including children—suffered injuries.

Although the exact number of casualties remains uncertain, the blast is believed to have significantly impacted both military personnel and nearby civilians traveling on the route.

Another IED Blast Claims 26 Civilian Lives in Kala-Balge

These incidents follow closely on the heels of yet another deadly explosion in Kala-Balge Local Government Area. On Monday, less than 24 hours before the Maiduguri attack, an IED planted by insurgents obliterated a passenger vehicle, killing at least 26 people and leaving several others wounded.

This recent string of attacks underscores the continued volatility in Borno State and the broader northeastern region, where Boko Haram and splinter groups such as ISWAP have persisted despite military efforts to neutralize them.

Renewed Concerns Over Security in Northeast Nigeria

The resurgence in violent attacks has reignited public concern over the safety of residents in Borno and surrounding states. Despite government claims of success in the fight against insurgency, civilians continue to bear the brunt of brutal assaults, ambushes, and bombings.

Many communities remain vulnerable, especially in rural areas where security presence is minimal and response times are delayed. Local authorities and humanitarian groups have called for stronger protection measures and increased support for victims of terrorism.