At least 20 people lost their lives on Thursday when Boko Haram insurgents launched a deadly ambush on soldiers, civilian volunteers, and workers in Wajirko community along the Biu–Damboa Road in Borno State, according to security officials and local leaders.
The midday attack, which occurred around 12 noon, also left several others injured, Punch reports.
A senior security source told Punch that among the dead were five soldiers and three members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF).
“The civilians were carrying out construction work at a bridge site when the terrorists struck. In the attack, five soldiers and three CJTF members were killed, along with numerous civilians present at the site,” the source said.
Bukar Tashkalma, National Secretary of the Biu Forum, confirmed the incident in a statement on Friday, expressing deep shock over the loss of lives.
“The Biu Forum mourns the recent Boko Haram attack on soldiers and civilians at Wajirko along the Biu–Damboa Road, which claimed over 20 lives from Biu and left many others injured,” he said.
He added that the victims were laid to rest following Islamic funeral rites, with Jana’iza prayers led by the Chief Imam of Biu Central Mosque.
“We offer our heartfelt condolences to the families and loved ones of the deceased and pray they find comfort in Allah’s will. The funeral prayers were performed, and the burials followed Islamic practices in Biu,” Tashkalma noted.
He also praised the courage of the security forces and called on the Federal Government to strengthen efforts to combat insurgency and improve safety across Borno and the wider North‑East region.
