‘Shocked and Saddened’ at Civilian Deaths in Nigeria, Secretary-General

 

Calls on Extremist Groups to Cease Attacks

 

The following statement was issued today by the Spokesperson for UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon:

The Secretary-General is shocked and saddened at the reports of high numbers of civilians killed, and homes destroyed, as a result of violence between military forces and an extremist group in the north-eastern town of Baga in Borno State, Nigeria, on 19 and 20 April.  He expresses his condolences to the bereaved families and calls on all extremist groups to cease their attacks.  The Secretary-General reiterates his firm conviction that no objective sought can justify this resort to violence.  He underscores the need for all concerned to fully respect human rights and safeguard the lives of civilians.

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For information media • not an official record