Terror Returns as Boko Haram Strikes Again in Adamawa

In a devastating assault, suspected Boko Haram terrorists attacked Kwapre and neighboring villages in the Yadul District of Hong Local Government Area, Adamawa State. The onslaught began around 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday, February 25, 2025, and continued into the early hours of Wednesday. The assailants destroyed churches, schools, homes, and businesses, looting valuable assets. Fortunately, no lives were lost, as residents, forewarned of the attack, fled their homes in time. Village Head of Kwapre, Mr. Joel Kulaha, expressed, “We escaped with our lives, but everything we own is gone.”

This incident marks the tenth attack on Kwapre since the Boko Haram insurgency began. The community has repeatedly suffered at the hands of these terrorists, leading to significant displacement and loss. In a previous attack in April 2021, over 5,000 individuals were displaced, with seven people killed, including three children. The insurgents burned 50 houses, places of worship, markets, and schools during that assault.

The persistent attacks have instilled deep fear among residents, many of whom have fled to nearby towns or sought refuge in displacement camps. The Adamawa State Emergency Management Agency (ADSEMA) has been actively providing relief materials to the affected populations. However, the continuous nature of these assaults has strained resources and challenged the agency’s capacity to respond effectively.

Security forces, including soldiers stationed in nearby Garaha town, responded to the latest attack, engaging the terrorists and eventually repelling them. Despite these efforts, the insurgents managed to inflict substantial damage before retreating to their hideouts. The Nigerian military has been conducting operations in the region to dismantle Boko Haram strongholds, but the group’s resilience and adaptability have made complete eradication challenging.

The Adamawa State government has condemned the recent attack and reiterated its commitment to enhancing security measures in the region. Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri has called for increased collaboration between security agencies and local communities to prevent future incidents. Residents are urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to authorities promptly.

As the community begins the arduous process of rebuilding, there is a pressing need for both immediate humanitarian assistance and long-term strategies to address the root causes of the insurgency. Ensuring the safety and well-being of Adamawa’s residents remains a paramount concern for both state and federal authorities.