More than 24 residents have reportedly been killed after gunmen invaded Kirchinga village in Madagali Local Government Area of Adamawa State.
The assailants attacked the community on Tuesday, setting homes, shops and places of worship ablaze while leaving several others injured. Many residents are also said to be missing.
Amnesty International condemns attack
In a statement issued on Tuesday, Amnesty International described the killings as horrifying and called on authorities to urgently protect lives and bring perpetrators to justice.
The organisation noted that although Boko Haram has not claimed responsibility, the pattern of the assault and testimonies from survivors suggested the hallmarks of the insurgent group.
According to Amnesty, the village was littered with bodies hours after the attack, with several buildings still smouldering while families searched for missing relatives.
Police assessment and security response
Suleiman Nguroje, spokesperson for the Adamawa State Police Command, confirmed that the Commissioner of Police, Dankombo Morris, conducted an on-the-spot assessment of the affected communities.
Nguroje said the police chief led a delegation of senior officers to review existing deployments and strengthen collaboration with other security agencies, particularly the military.
During the visit, the commissioner met with the emir of Madagali and the chairman of the local government area, as well as community representatives from Shuawari Kirchinga ward.
The police chief commiserated with residents and assured them that measures were being taken to restore calm and reinforce security presence in the area.
Casualty figures yet to be finalised
When contacted for clarification on the casualty toll, Nguroje said the number of deaths had yet to be fully ascertained, adding that further updates would be communicated as investigations continue.
Governor reacts
Governor Ahmadu Fintiri of Adamawa State condemned the attack and vowed that justice would be pursued for the victims. He reiterated that the state government would not succumb to fear amid ongoing security challenges.
The latest violence comes days after suspected Boko Haram fighters reportedly killed three persons in Garaha district, Hong Local Government Area of the state, raising fresh concerns over renewed insurgent activities in parts of Adamawa.
Security analysts note that Madagali LGA, located near the Nigeria–Cameroon border, has historically experienced repeated insurgent incursions, making it a flashpoint in the broader North-East security crisis.
Authorities say coordinated operations involving police and military units are ongoing to track down the attackers and prevent further assaults on vulnerable communities.
