By Mary Izuaka

 

The Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari, has described the killing of 15 farmers in Borno State as an attack on Nigeria’s food security.

Mr Kyari stated this in a statement on Sunday condemning the attack on farmers in Marte Local Government Area of the state by suspected terrorists.

Last Wednesday, suspected Boko Haram terrorists reportedly ambushed and killed 15 farmers on their farmlands around Ala and Musune wards of Marte Local Government Area of Borno State.

Sources said only 15 bodies out of the 18 people who went to the farms were found and buried last Thursday, while three others remained missing.

On Sunday, the minister said he was deeply saddened and outraged by the tragic killing.

“These innocent Nigerians lost their lives while working on their farms to earn a living and contribute to the food security of our nation,” Mr Kyari said.

Mr Kyari extended condolences to the families of the victims, the people of Marte, Governor Babagana Zulum, and the government and people of Borno State.

“I extend my heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims, the people of Marte, His Excellency the Executive Governor Babagana Umara Zulum, the government and people of Borno State. I pray that Almighty Allah grant the deceased eternal rest and comfort their families.

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“The killing of farmers is not only an attack on innocent lives and livelihoods, but also on our collective efforts to achieve food security,” he added.

The minister said under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu, the government remains committed to creating an environment where farmers can cultivate their lands safely and productively.

He commended security agencies for their efforts to protect farming communities and urged them to intensify operations to bring those responsible to justice.

Mr Kyari also called on security agencies to locate three persons reportedly still missing after the attack.

“Protecting our farmers is protecting Nigeria’s food security,” he said.