BORNO: UN condemns Boko Haram attacks on humanitarian hubs

THE United Nations (UN) has condemned the attacks on three humanitarian hubs by Boko Haram sect in Damasak yesterday.

The condemnation was contained in a statement issued by the resident and humanitarian coordinator of the UN in Nigeria, Edward Kallon.

Kallon, who expressed concern over the development, said the attacks may lead to reduction of humanitarian operations in Borno State.

He stressed that civilians and aid workers, their facilities and assets should never be a target according to international humanitarian law and human rights law.

The statement read in part, “I am deeply concerned about recurrent reports of violent attacks by non-state armed groups putting the lives of civilians at risk.

“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.

“I strongly condemn the attack, as humanitarian aid operations and facilities are the lifeline for people affected by violence and conflict in north-east Nigeria who are dependent on assistance to survive.

“Humanitarian operations in Damasak will be reduced due to the violent attack, which will affect the support to 8,800 internally displaced people and 76,000 people in the host community receiving humanitarian assistance and protection there.

“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”. 

Kallon appealed to donors, stakeholders and the United Nations Humanitarian Air Service (UNHAS) for support in funding the humanitarian hubs describing them as “vital enablers of the humanitarian operations” in the Northeast in Nigeria.

He said, “I also appeal to our generous donors and stakeholders for support in funding the nine humanitarian hubs and to the United Nations Humanitarian Air Service (UNHAS), as these are vital enablers of the humanitarian operations in north-east Nigeria. I also appeal to donors to urgently continue their support for the Humanitarian Response Plan for north-east Nigeria in order to provide lifesaving and life sustaining support to some 6.4 million displaced people and host communities affected by the humanitarian crisis there.”