A mass burial in Lamurde, Adamawa State, on Tuesday became both a farewell ceremony and a powerful public outcry as nine women killed in Monday’s alleged shooting by army personnel were laid to rest amid deep grief and mounting anger.
Held within the Lamurde Local Government Secretariat, the event drew thousands from the town and its neighbouring communities, all united in mourning and demanding answers. The identities of the victims were formally announced: Florence Frank, Suzy Tanko, Marry Talmon, Mercy Kennedy, Lucky Yakubu, Pwamwasari Tami, Mary Shikauno, Destiny Gibson, and Hunbokwama Nickson.
Wrapped in white and grass mats, the women were placed side-by-side, creating a harrowing sight that intensified public outrage over what many residents described as an “avoidable and unjustified attack.”
During the ceremony, the Bwate Youth Wing, representing Bachama-speaking communities, delivered a forceful rebuke of the Nigerian Army.
“We maintain without hesitation that the army opened fire on innocent women,” said Secretary-General Abner Kwakano, calling for an independent and transparent investigation. Anything less, he warned, would dishonour the memory of the slain women.
But the Chobo Youth Forum issued a sharp counter-narrative. In a statement signed by its Secretary-General, Engr. Gideon Sam, the group denied suggestions that Chobo youths initiated violence. Instead, it alleged that Chobo communities were attacked and their villages destroyed by a Bachama militia, describing claims of Chobo aggression as “false, misleading, and dangerous.”
As both groups trade accusations, tension in the region remains high. Meanwhile, pressure continues to mount on the Nigerian Army to provide a clear account of what triggered the confrontation — and how unarmed women became its tragic casualties.
A grieving community and an unsettled nation now await answers.
