By Abdul Kareem
In the rain-soaked town of Mafa, Yobe State, Northeast Nigeria, grief-stricken residents gathered on Tuesday morning for a mass burial following a brutal attack by Boko Haram gunmen during Monday evening prayers. The assault left the community shattered, both physically and emotionally.

Survivors spent a sleepless night hiding in the bush, watching helplessly as their homes were engulfed in flames. By morning, they returned to a scene of horror—charred remains and devastated landscapes.

“This is the first time our community has faced such a devastating attack,” lamented local elder Buba Adamu, his voice heavy with sorrow. “We never imagined something like this could happen here.”

Amidst the chaos, residents struggled to tally the dead. “I’ve lost count of the corpses,” said Bappa, a resident. “It’s far beyond the 34 deaths mentioned by the authorities.”

Community leader Zanna Umar insisted the toll was higher, with over 40 buried in nearby villages and 28 in Mafa itself. “We’re still searching for more because many people are missing,” he added.

The assault on September 1 was marked by chilling brutality. Terrorists not only opened fire on worshippers but also booby-trapped bodies with IEDs, targeting potential rescuers. “At least four IEDs were planted along the route to the village,” revealed a military source, speaking anonymously.

Speculation surrounds the motive for the attack, with some suggesting it was retaliation for the community’s refusal to continue paying levies to the militants. “For years, we’ve been paying under duress,” shared another resident, who wished to remain anonymous due to safety concerns. “We couldn’t continue this way, and now we’re paying the ultimate price.”

Yobe State Deputy Governor Idi Barde Gubana visited Mafa to offer condolences and support to the grieving community. Meanwhile, the military reported 34 fatalities, with arrangements made for a dignified burial.

As Mafa mourns its lost, the community is left grappling with the aftermath of unspeakable violence and the long road to healing.