More than 24 residents have been killed following a deadly attack on Kirchinga village in Madagali Local Government Area of Adamawa State, authorities and rights groups have confirmed.
The assailants reportedly invaded the community on Tuesday, setting homes, shops and places of worship ablaze, while leaving several others injured.
Survivors said the attackers struck without warning, unleashing violence that left parts of the village in ruins.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, Amnesty International condemned the killings, describing the incident as “horrifying.” Although no group has formally claimed responsibility, Amnesty said the pattern of the assault and accounts from survivors bore the hallmark of Boko Haram.
According to the organisation, bodies were seen scattered across the village hours after the attack, with buildings still smouldering. It added that several residents remain unaccounted for.
Amnesty called on authorities to intensify efforts to protect vulnerable communities and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.
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Confirming the development, the Adamawa State Police Command said the Commissioner of Police, Dankombo Morris, conducted an on-the-spot assessment of the affected areas.
Police spokesperson Suleiman Nguroje said the commissioner led a team of senior officers to review security deployments and strengthen coordination with other agencies, particularly the military.
During the visit, Morris was received by the Emir of Madagali and the chairman of Madagali LGA, and also met with members of the affected communities, including residents of Shuawari Kirchinga ward.
The police chief commiserated with families of the victims and assured residents that measures were being taken to restore calm and reinforce security presence in the area.
When contacted, Nguroje stated that the exact casualty figure was yet to be officially verified, adding that further updates would be provided as investigations continue.
Governor Ahmadu Fintiri condemned the attack and vowed that the perpetrators would be brought to justice. He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property, insisting that the state would not succumb to fear.
The latest assault comes just days after suspected Boko Haram fighters reportedly killed three people in Garaha district, Hong Local Government Area of the state, heightening concerns about renewed insecurity in parts of northeastern Nigeria.