The United Nations (UN) has confirmed and condemned the attacks against aid facilities in Damask, Borno, by terrorists.
At least fours people including soldiers were killed on Saturday evening as suspected members of ISWAP, a faction of the Boko Haram, attacked Damasak, a border community in Borno State, security sources and witnesses said.
Humanitarian Coordinator and head of the UN mission in Nigeria, Edward Kallon who confirmed the incident to newsmen said he was deeply concerned over non-state armed groups putting the lives of civilians at risks.
According to him: “Last night and through the morning, a violent attack in Damasak town, in Borno State, was reported with three international aid partners’ facilities directly targeted, set ablaze, and sustained damage.
“I continue to be concerned about the safety and security of civilians and humanitarian workers.
Kallon regretted that humanitarian operations in Damasak and the support to 8,800 internally displaced people and 76,000 people in the host community have been affected.
He said the attack will “affect the support to 8,800 internally displaced people and 76,000 people in the host community receiving humanitarian assistance and protection there.”
Mr Kallon said “Civilians and aid workers, their facilities and assets should never be a target. They must always be protected and respected. I call on armed parties to observe and commit to international humanitarian law and human rights law, and ensure the protection of civilians, humanitarian property, and personnel.”
He appealed to donors and stakeholders for support in funding the nine humanitarian hubs and to the United Nations Humanitarian Air Service (UNHAS).
The coordinator described them as vital enablers of the humanitarian operations in northeast Nigeria.
Kallon also urged support for the Humanitarian Response Plan for North-east Nigeria to provide life-sustaining support to some 6.4 million displaced people and host communities.
