Hussaini Ibrahim 
MAIDUGURI, Nigeria – Armed insurgents unleash deadly violence on defenceless farmers in Borno, killing at least 19 people in a daylight ambush that deepens fears over safety in Nigeria’s food-producing regions.
Residents say suspected Boko Haram fighters strike Amdaga community in Gwoza Local Government Area around 11 a.m. on Thursday, targeting villagers clearing farmland ahead of the rainy season.
“They were ambushed while working on their farms,” says Emmanuel Ibrahim, President of the Gwoza Elite Forum.
Witnesses report that victims are shot and attacked with machetes, while several others flee with injuries.
“Some people escaped and told us what happened. It was terrifying,” says resident Saliu Abdul.
Local volunteers and villagers continue search operations for missing persons, raising fears the death toll could rise.
Authorities say most victims are men, intensifying concerns over the impact on farming activities and food production.
The attack comes less than 48 hours after similar assaults in Borno and neighbouring Adamawa left 20 people dead.
Community leaders call for urgent government intervention to prevent further killings.
Security agencies have yet to issue an official statement, as residents brace for more attacks during the planting season.
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Korede Abdullah 
Oluwafunbi Bello 
Chukwu Obinna