United Nations shows concern about Boko Haram attacks in African countries

The Secretary-General of the United Nations, Ban Ki-moon expressed "deep concern" Friday on the continuation of Boko Haram attacks against civilian populations in Cameroon, Chad, Niger and Nigeria.

"The Secretary-General was dismayed by the continuation of the abduction of children and the use by the latter of 'human bombs', as well as the evidence that most girls and women held by Boko Haram were repeatedly raped while in captivity and forced to marry their abductors in a campaign of forced imprisonment and sexual violence" said a spokesman for Mr. Ban in a statement.

"The perpetrators of these despicable acts must be brought to justice," said the spokesman, who called on the Government of Nigeria "to intensify the provision of medical and psychosocial support to survivors".

According to the release, Mr Ban also expressed concerned about the displacement of about 40,000 civilian in Cameroon, Chad, Niger and Nigeria in the past three weeks.

He urged members of the Lake Chad Basin Commission and Benin to progress in the operationalization of the Multinational joint operational Force (MNJTF) and to create a secure environment for the voluntary return, resettlement or integration of displaced persons and refugees.