The Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, has condemned the killing of 15 farmers and other rural residents in Marte Local Government Area of Borno State, describing the incident as a serious setback for communities already affected by insecurity.

The victims were killed in an attack around Ala and Musune wards of Marte, where residents had reportedly gone to their farms and surrounding areas to carry out agricultural activities and gather firewood.

The Borno State Police Command confirmed that 15 people were killed in the incident, while efforts were continuing to establish the whereabouts of three other residents who remained missing. Police spokesman Nahum Daso said details were still being gathered as authorities continued their response.

Reports from local sources indicated that 18 people had ventured into the area before the attack, with 15 bodies subsequently recovered and buried according to Islamic rites. The victims were reported to include farmers and firewood gatherers from the affected communities.

The attackers have been described in reports as suspected Boko Haram militants, although authorities have not publicly announced a definitive attribution or identified any suspects in connection with the killings.

Reacting to the incident, Kyari expressed condolences to the families of the victims, the people of Marte and the Borno State Government.

The minister said the loss of farmers was particularly concerning because insecurity in rural areas can affect both household livelihoods and the wider effort to maintain food production.

He reaffirmed the Federal Government’s stated commitment to creating safer conditions for farmers to cultivate their land and contribute to national food security.

Kyari also commended security agencies for their efforts in protecting farming communities while urging them to intensify their operations to identify those responsible for the attack.

He further called for efforts to locate the three people still reported missing following the incident.

The minister's reaction comes as concern continues to grow over the safety of rural communities in parts of Borno, where insecurity has made farming and other livelihood activities increasingly difficult.

Amnesty International has also condemned the killings, describing the reported targeting of civilians as a serious violation of international humanitarian law. The organisation called on Nigerian authorities to strengthen protection for vulnerable communities in the North-East and ensure that residents can access farms and other sources of livelihood safely.

For communities in Marte, the incident has renewed concerns about the risks faced by residents who depend on farming and the collection of firewood for food and income.

The killing of farmers also carries implications beyond the immediate loss of lives, as prolonged insecurity can discourage agricultural activity, restrict access to farmland and place additional pressure on food supplies and rural household incomes.

Authorities have continued efforts to establish the full circumstances surrounding the attack and locate those still missing. Further details are expected as security agencies complete their investigations.

Reporting by TalkNaijaMedia