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Zabarmari Massacre: Pope Francis Condemns Boko Haram Killing Of Borno Farmers

Pope Francis on Wednesday condemned the massacre of farmers in Borno State which was claimed by the Boko Haram insurgents.

“I want to assure my prayers for Nigeria, where blood has unfortunately been spilled once more in a terrorist attack,” he said in his weekly general audience.

Remembering those who he said were “brutally killed”, he said: “May God welcome them in his peace and comfort their families, and convert the hearts of those who commit similar atrocities, which gravely offend his name.”

The pope also used his address to mark the 40th anniversary of the death of four missionaries who were kidnapped, raped, and killed by a paramilitary group in El Salvador during the civil war.

“With evangelical dedication, and running great risks, they were bringing food and medication to the displaced and were helping poorer families. These women lived their faith with great generosity. They are an example for everyone to become faithful missionary disciples,” he said.

At least 43 farmers were killed on Saturday morning around Marrabati and Hammayya villages, near Zabarmari in Jere Local Government Area of Borno State by Boko Haram terrorists while on their way to their rice farms which they were harvesting before the surprise attack happened.

Some other farmers were also taken away by the insurgents

Angela Davies