Violence in Nigeria

By US Department of State
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Violence in Nigeria

WASHINGTON, October 1, 2013/African Press Organization (APO)/ -- Press Statement

Jen Psaki

Department Spokesperson, Office of the Spokesperson

Washington, DC

September 30, 2013


As Nigeria prepares to celebrate its 53rd year of independence, the United States stands with all Nigerians to reject the heinous violence that continues to be perpetrated by Boko Haram and other extremist groups. These attacks on innocent civilians have no place in a democratic society.

Following last week's heinous attack in Benisheikh, where more than 160 people were shot and slaughtered, this weekend's attacks in Yobe state took the lives of more than fifty innocent students and civilians. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families and loved ones of those who lost their lives in these senseless acts of violence.

We encourage the Government of Nigeria to work together with the families of the victims and affected communities to find and bring those responsible for this deplorable violence to justice, and to enhance the protection of civilians to ensure respect for the rule of law.