“Arm Our Youths” – Chibok Community Cries Out Amid Fresh Boko Haram Attacks

Residents of Chibok in Borno State have again raised alarm over renewed Boko Haram attacks. Community leaders are calling on the Federal Government to urgently equip local youths to defend their towns.

The appeal comes after a fresh wave of violence that has left several people dead and many others displaced in recent days.

The Kibaku Area Development Association (KADA), speaking at a press briefing in Abuja, described the situation as worsening.

The group said the people of Chibok have lived under constant fear for years, with attacks continuing despite repeated calls for help. According to the association, more than 432 lives have been lost in over 115 attacks recorded since 2012.

“For over a decade, our people have endured unimaginable suffering, fear, displacement and loss. Despite repeated pleas, the security situations remain dire, with little visible effort toward stopping these relentless assults.

“ The tragic abduction of our school girls on April 14,2014 remain open wound. To this day, nearly 100 of them are still unrescued or unaccounted for, and SADLY the horror has not stopped. Within the last week alone, our community has experienced multiple coordinated attacks across Chibok local government area,” the community said.

KADA National President, Nkeki Mutah, gave details of the latest incidents. He said three villages — Kautikari, Kauthlama, and Kwople — were attacked in coordinated operations by suspected insurgents. The attacks left several residents dead, others injured, while many families were forced to flee.

He disclosed that in the most recent violence across affected communities, at least 19 people were killed, while two others suffered serious injuries. The attacks also spread to areas such as Meyoledi and Watsirakabi, further deepening fears among residents.

According to him, the destruction was widespread. Several houses were burnt to the ground. Places of worship were not spared, with at least four churches set ablaze during the attacks. Livestock, which serve as a major source of livelihood, were either stolen or killed. In Kautikari alone, six cows were taken, while other communities reported similar losses.

The association said the pattern of attacks shows that insurgents still have strong operational capacity in the region. It warned that without urgent intervention, more communities could be overrun.

KADA is now asking the government to take decisive steps. The group called for the establishment of permanent military formations in vulnerable border areas linking Chibok, Damboa, and Askira Uba local government areas. It also urged authorities to support trained local youths who are willing to assist security agencies.

” Our youths who received security vigilance training last year need the necessary tools and equipment to support security agencies in protecting our communities

“We urgently request the establishment of permanent military and joint security formations in strategic border communities between Chibok, Damboa and Askira Uba LGAs @;Kautikari, Gatamwarwa, Kuburmbula, Korongilim/Ngilang and Shikarkir,” Nkeki said.

Beyond security, the association also raised concerns about the humanitarian situation. Many residents displaced by the attacks are currently in need of urgent support, including food, shelter, and medical care. KADA appealed to the government to allow humanitarian organisations easier access to affected areas to provide relief.

Despite the challenges, the group acknowledged the efforts of security operatives working in the region. It commended the military, police, and local vigilante groups for their sacrifices, noting that many personnel continue to risk their lives daily to protect civilians.

“We profoundly appreciate our Gallant military personnels, Nigeria police force, Vigilante groups and all Security operatives who continue to risk their lives to defend our people. We equally thank the Press for consistently amplifying our voices and bringing attention to our suffering,” he said.

Recall that Chibok gained global attention following the 2014 abduction of schoolgirls by Boko Haram. Years later, the community is still grappling with insecurity, as fresh attacks continue to threaten lives and property across the area.