Samuel O. Adelaja
Nigeria’s president – Muhammadu Buhari has on Sunday in Abuja condemned the attack on United Nation’s aid helicopter in the Northeast on Saturday by the Boko Haram insurgents. Two civilians including a five-year old child were reported killed in what the president described “a dastardly act” by the terrorist group.
A UN communication expert said the aircraft was shot as it approached Damasak and the pilots managed to fly back to regional capital Maiduguri 150 kilometres (90 miles) away.
Speaking on behalf of the President, Malam Garba Shehu, one of Buhari spokesperson said “This latest cowardly attack on the UN humanitarian helicopter is yet another desperate rear guard action by the Boko Haram terrorists who have been under intense pressure from the Nigerian military.
“Let me reassure the international community and Nigerians that this latest cowardly attack on a UN helicopter which claimed the lives of two people, including a five-year-old baby, would not go without severe consequences.
“Boko Haram terrorists are clearly on the back foot and their increasing attacks on innocent civilians, including UN humanitarian workers, was part of their desperation to prove that they are strong in order to cover up their dwindling fortunes.”
President Buhari however assured that the security of Nigerians and that of foreigners are being held in high esteem and remains a top priority to this administration, stating that no stones will be left unturned till justice is served to the marauding jihadists.