BOKO HARAM: US condemns latest Boko Haram attacks

The United States of America has condemned the latest Boko Haram attacks in Borno State which resulted in the death of more than 40 people. According to the US, the recent attacks are a reminder of the terrorist group’s capability to wreak major havoc. In a statement issued in Washington by the US Department of State’s spokesman, John Kirby, the US called on the Federal Government to hold those responsible for the attacks accountable. “We offer our deepest sympathy and condolences to the families and friends of the victims of recent attacks in Borno State, attacks that resulted in more than 40 deaths. We condemn in the strongest terms the continued and widespread violence inflicted by Boko Haram on innocent men, women, and children in Nigeria. Those responsible must be held accountable. “These latest attacks serve as a reminder that despite progress on the battlefield, Boko Haram remains capable of deadly and destabilizing acts of terrorism. We commend the efforts by the Nigerian military, as well as the militaries of Chad, Niger, and Cameroon for the gains they have made fighting Boko Haram,” Kirby stated. The US, however, urged President Muhammadu Buhari to take further steps to secure and “govern liberated areas by filling in behind military successes with police and civilian administration.” “The United States stands with Nigeria in the face of this threat. We will continue to take steps to increase our support for their efforts,” the statement added. Last week, the US promised to work with President Buhari to stop the menace of the insurgents in Nigeria and neighbouring countries. The US Assistant Secretary, Bureau of African Affairs, Linda Thomas-Greenfield, during a telephone press briefing in South Africa last week, said that the American government was committed to ensuring that Nigeria wins its battle against the terrorist group. Thomas-Greenfield added that the US was committing $5m to Nigeria’s efforts at defeating Boko Haram and that Nigeria had been receiving equipment and technical assistance from the US.