Condemning Bomb Attacks in Nigeria, Secretary-General Says Continuing Violence by Boko Haram ‘an Affront’ to Religious Faith

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

The Secretary-General condemns the bomb attacks of 2 October in the outskirts of Abuja, Nigeria, as well as the multiple suicide bombings of 1 October in the city of Maiduguri, capital of Borno State, all by suspected Boko Haram elements.  The continuing violence by Boko Haram is an affront to international law, to humanity and to religious faith.

The Secretary-General extends his heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and the Government of Nigeria, and wishes a speedy recovery to those injured.  He reiterates United Nations support to the Nigerian Government in its fight against terrorism.

The Secretary-General also recalls the vital importance and obligation to respect international humanitarian, human rights and refugee law in countering terrorism.