UN condemns execution of four aid workers in Nigeria

The execution of four aid workers by Boko Haram insurgents in Borno State was a tragedy for the people of Nigeria and the humanitarian community supporting them, the UN has said. 

The executed men were among six aid workers abducted by Boko Haram on 26th July, when their convoy was attacked near Damasak. They were working on a health project run by Action Against Hunger, an NGO that helps malnourished children and provides sustainable solutions to hunger. 

The UN Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, Edward Kallon, said in a statement how deeply saddened he was at the execution of the aid workers, who had been held captive for five months. 

"My thoughts go to their families, friends, and colleagues who are enduring unspeakable pain and hardship”, he said.

Mr Kallon issued a plea for the safe return of Grace Taku, the only woman on the team, as well as Alice Loksha, a nurse who was abducted during an attack in Rann in March 2018. 

The statement finished with a call to end violence against humanitarian workers, particularly in an area where such work is considered vital.

"Violence against humanitarian actors jeopardises access to much-needed assistance for people affected by the armed conflict. 

"I renew the call for all armed actors to respect the principles of humanity, neutrality, independence, and impartiality which guide humanitarian assistance, and to ensure the protection of aid workers.”

Photo credit: Reuters | Afolabi Sotunde