‘Callous Attack’ – Buhari Reacts As ISWAP Kills 69 Persons In Niger Republic

President Muhammadu Buhari has described the killing of 69 people in Niger Republic by the Islamic State in West Africa Province (ISWAP) insurgents as a “dastardly and callous act”.

In a statement on Friday issued by his media aide, Garba Shehu, the Nigerian leader expressed deep sadness over the incident, adding that the killing of innocent citizens calls for serious concern.

President Buhari added that the killing which happened on Niger Republic’s border with Mali and Burkina Faso, was a disturbing setback to the regional efforts to stem terrorism.

He asked African leaders to come together with aim of defeating terrorism on the continent and ensuring a safe place for the people.

The President, however, commiserated with the people and President Mohammed Bazoum of Niger Republic over the killing.

The statement reads in parts: “The indiscriminate violence on innocent people in one place was a threat everywhere in Africa, and therefore, there was the urgency of greater cooperation among African countries to nip terrorist threats in the bud.

“The dastardly and callous attack” on innocent people, including a mayor in Niger Republic, was a disturbing setback to the regional efforts to stem terrorism.

“Terrorism shouldn’t be treated as a localised security threat, because it’s spreading its tentacles far beyond our imaginations. It’s high time we pulled resources and efforts together to defeat these callous criminals who are causing serious social and economic disruptions in our countries. Nigeria will continue to support our neighbours in the common efforts to fight terrorism.”