Omanghana
At least 18 villagers have been killed in an attack by suspected Boko Haram militants in Nigeria’s northeastern Borno State, according to local leaders and security sources cited by Reuters.
The victims were gathering firewood in Marte Local Government Area on Thursday, October 1, 2026, when armed men ambushed them. The traditional ruler of Marte said 18 bodies had been recovered, while other villagers remained missing.
Residents depend on surrounding bush areas for cooking fuel and firewood to sell, leaving them exposed to attacks as they pursue their livelihoods.
Amnesty International condemned the killings, reporting at least 15 deaths in a separate account. The organization urged Nigerian authorities to strengthen civilian protection and conduct a prompt, thorough and independent investigation.
A senior military officer told Reuters that troops had begun clearance operations in the area and were pursuing the attackers.
Marte is among the communities heavily affected by the insurgency in northeastern Nigeria, where Boko Haram and its offshoot, Islamic State West Africa Province, remain active.
The prolonged conflict has killed tens of thousands of people and displaced millions, with farmers and residents collecting essential supplies facing persistent insecurity outside populated areas.
Source: Omanghana
