A unique and devastating consequence of Nigeria's long-running conflict is unfolding on the Nigeria-Cameroon border, where hundreds of elephants displaced from their original habitat by Boko Haram insurgents are clashing with local communities, destroying homes and farms. The elephants, historically native to the Sambisa Forest in Borno State, were forced out after the terrorist group commandeered the forest as a major operational base. Now roaming freely in search of food and safety, the herds—estimated to number over 300—move between the towns of Gamboru in Nigeria and Fotokol in Cameroon, leaving a trail of destruction in their wake. A "Disaster" for Farmers and Residents The conflict came to a head on Thursday, December 4, 2025, when a massive herd invaded Gamboru around 2 p.m. Eyewitnesses described a scene of panic and devastation. "They caused a lot of damage, destroying our guinea corn farms and houses, especially those bui...
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