The United Nations (UN) has condemned a Boko Haram attack on Damasak town in Borno State, where an aid chopper was shot down by the terrorists.
According to Edward Kallon, the resident/humanitarian coordinator of the UN in Nigeria, two civilians including a five year old was killed killed in the attack.
He confirmed that a UN chopper was hit by bullets which led to its crash during the attack.
In a statement addressing the attack, Kallon called on the Nigerian Government to investigate the incident.
“I am gravely concerned by reports of another violent attack by non-state armed groups in Damasak, Borno State, on 2 July, in which at least two innocent civilians lost their lives, including a five-year old child. Several others were injured, and a humanitarian helicopter was hit, sustaining serious damage,” the statement read.
“I extend my sincere condolences to the families of the civilians who lost their lives in the attack and wish a prompt recovery to those injured.
“I welcome the Government commitment to investigate the attack and swiftly bring to justice the perpetrators.
“I deplore that a UN Humanitarian Air Service helicopter was hit by bullets during the attack. No aid workers were on board at the time and crew members are all safe.
My thoughts are also with the crew and I commend them for piloting the chopper back to safety during this critical situation.”
Kallon further called for urgent action to ensure the safety of residents and aid workers saying the attack on Damasak will seriously hinder the provision of aid to communities in remote areas of the Northeast affected by the war against Boko Haram.
“I strongly condemn any attack against civilians, humanitarian assets or aid workers and call on all armed parties to respect international humanitarian law and international human rights law, and ensure the protection of civilians, humanitarian property and personnel,” he said.
“I furthermore call on all parties to allow and facilitate safe and unimpeded access for humanitarians to deliver life-saving assistance to the most vulnerable people in the north-east.
“Insecurity and violent attacks continue to hamper the ability of people to access basic services or livelihoods and recover from the protracted crisis in north-east Nigeria.”