Buhari: There’ll be consequences for attack on UN helicopter

President Muhammadu Buhari has condemned the attack by Boko Haram insurgents in Damasak, Borno state, which led to the death of a five-year-old girl.

A humanitarian chopper belonging to the United Nations was also damaged by bullets fired by the insurgents during the attack which occurred last Thursday.

In a statement issued on Sunday, the president described the attack as “cowardly”, adding that it showed the desperation of the insurgents to cover up their dwindling fortunes.

“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,” Buhari said.

“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, [are] part of their desperation to prove that they are strong in order to cover up their dwindling fortunes.

“The security of foreigners and Nigerians remain the top priority of this administration, and we shall leave no stone unturned until we eliminate these remorseless enemies of humanity.”

The president also emphasised the need for all humanitarian and other aid workers in the region to, at all times, properly coordinate movements — air or land — with the theatre commander and other military authorities.