Zulum spends night in Damasak, says 18 killed in Boko Haram attack

Babagana Zulum, governor of Borno state, says 18 people died while 21 were injured in the Boko Haram attack in Damasak, Mobbar LGA.

The insurgents attacked Damasak with three gun trucks on Tuesday, resulting in the displacement of residents.

The army had subsequently released a video to show that the town was not under the occupation of Boko Haram insurgents.

The governor, who spent Thursday night in Damasak, interacted with soldiers and others security agencies involved in counter-insurgency operations during his stay.

He said apart from the casualties, several properties were destroyed, which include the UN humanitarian hub, police station, palace of the district head, a primary health care centre, and a GSM village

Zulum empathised with the affected residents and those who had fled to Niger communities. He assured them that measures are being put in place to avoid future attacks.

He donated an armoured personnel carrier (APC) and 11 patrol vehicles to strengthen the fight against insurgency.

The governor further directed that agricultural activities be strengthened in the town.

Until Damask was first attacked in 2014, the town was renowned for the cultivation of vegetables and exportation to neighbouring countries.