Madagali Attack: Newly Appointed Village Head, 17 Others Slaughtered in Boko Haram Bloodbath
Another dark chapter has been added to Nigeria’s worsening security crisis as at least 18 people were brutally killed during a deadly attack on Shuwari and Gwazu communities under Kirchinga in Madagali Local Government Area.
Reacting to the bloodshed, the President of EYN – Church of the Brethren in Nigeria, Rev. Daniel Y. C. Mbaya, PhD, during the Headquarters Staff Devotion today, strongly condemned the incessant attacks, describing them as gruesome, worrisome, and deeply troubling. He called on the government and security agencies to urgently intensify their fight against insurgency, warning that continued silence and slow response would only embolden attackers and further endanger innocent lives.
The attack, carried out by suspected fighters of Boko Haram, occurred at about 5:00 p.m. when the assailants stormed the communities, set the local market ablaze, destroyed residential houses, and rustled cattle belonging to helpless residents.
Among the victims was Lawan Ignatius Papka Bademi , the newly appointed Village Head of Shuwari, whose killing has sent shockwaves through the entire area. Community members say his death underscores how even traditional leaders are no longer spared in the ongoing violence.
As of the time of this report, 18 bodies have been recovered, while several residents remain missing. Search-and-rescue efforts are ongoing amid fear, trauma, and uncertainty.
Residents described scenes of terror as families fled for safety, livelihoods went up in flames, and entire households were reduced to grief. The destruction of the market and homes has further deepened the humanitarian crisis, leaving many without shelter or means of survival.
Anger continues to mount as affected communities accuse authorities of responding with words instead of protection, insisting that rural lives must not continue to be treated as expendable.
Victims Identified
Those killed include Ignatius Papka Bademi Lawan (newly appointed Village Head of Shuwari), Dauda Ijigil, Vandu Dzugoriyu, Peter Dunya Imirsa, Mboina Uba, Hananiah Peter, Papka Udurwa, Ntakurda Gurhengwal, Yardliya Ijafiya, Buhari Angelo Yaffa, Emmanuel Gabjal, Jauro Musa Vwa, Ijaduwa Bzigu, John Pur Imirsa, Ali Bukar, Mada M.M. Nkwa’akla, and Waindu Jilantikiru Giwa Mingyi.
