Adamawa: Shuwari-Kirchinga residents flee over fear of Boko Haram attack

Residents of Shuwari-Kirchinga town in Adamawa State are fleeing the area amid rising tension and uncertainty following last Tuesday’s Boko Haram attack that claimed 22 lives in Madagali Local Government Area. Kirchinga is the political ward and hometown of Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri. The community has repeatedly experienced terrorist attacks due to its proximity to […]

Residents of Shuwari-Kirchinga town in Adamawa State are fleeing the area amid rising tension and uncertainty following last Tuesday’s Boko Haram attack that claimed 22 lives in Madagali Local Government Area.

Kirchinga is the political ward and hometown of Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri. The community has repeatedly experienced terrorist attacks due to its proximity to the Sambisa Forest in the northern part of the state, which borders Borno State.

In separate telephone interviews, some residents explained that the security situation in their communities remains fragile and precarious, as terrorists can strike at any time without resistance, emboldening them to perpetrate further atrocities.

Livinus Moses, a resident, said he has relocated his family and belongings to Yola, the state capital, for safety, lamenting that fear and uncertainty have gripped the people.

He added that all his animals, including cows and goats, were rustled by the terrorists during last week’s invasion of the town. He said residents are leaving en masse in search of peace of mind.

Ejandri Papka of Shuwari expressed dismay over what he described as the “kid-glove” manner in which security agencies are handling the situation.

He claimed the military had been alerted about the impending attack, but only arrived after the unfortunate incident on what he described as a “Black Tuesday.”

Papka said he had moved his family and property to Mubi following the traumatic experience.

Auwal Yakubu said the attack led to the loss of over a hundred herds of cattle and sheep. He noted that many residents have relocated to Mubi, Michika, Yola, Shuwa, and Gombi for safety.

Former Chairman of Madagali Local Government Council, Maina Ularamu, confirmed that villagers are leaving gradually, and the town is becoming a shadow of itself.

He urged authorities to urgently address the situation before it worsens.

The Chairman of Madagali LGA, Musa Shashi, did not answer calls to his phone number or respond to a text message seeking his reaction.

Governor Fintiri, who visited the town, assured traumatised residents that his administration is collaborating with the federal government to find a lasting solution to the security challenges.

He was recently seen at the office of the Minister of Defence, a move believed to be connected to efforts to address the situation.