#News: Boko Haram in 'despicable' attack

[BBC]

 But Boko Haram, which translates as "Western education is forbidden", has stepped up attacks against civilian targets ever since the Nigerian military offensive began last year.

It frequently attacks schools and colleges, which it sees as a symbol of Western culture, and was behind the kidnapping of over 200 schoolgirls from Chibok in Borno state.

Mafa and the surrounding area has been repeatedly attacked by militants.

About 30 boys and girls were taken during a raid in October, despite government claims of a truce. At least 17 people were also killed in the assault.

Some 29 people were also killed in an attack on Mafa town in March.

Nigeria's parliament was closed on Thursday, after the police fired teargas inside the building.

Correspondents said the police were trying to stop the speaker of the lower house, Aminu Tambuwani, from entering the chamber, following his defection to the opposition last month.

Lawmakers were due to discuss whether to extend the state of emergency in the northeast.

 Who are Boko Haram?   Boko Haram militants control several towns and villages in northern Nigeria  

• Founded in 2002
• Initially focused on opposing Western education - Boko Haram means "Western education is forbidden" in the Hausa language
• Launched military operations in 2009 to create Islamic state
• Thousands killed, mostly in north-eastern Nigeria - also attacked police and UN headquarters in capital, Abuja
• Some three million people affected
• Declared terrorist group by US in 2013

Escape from Boko Haram

Who are Boko Haram?

Profile: Boko Haram leader Abubakar Shekau

Will 'truce' with Boko Haram free Chibok girls?

   
Source: BBC