At least 45 people are dead in the latest Boko Haram attack in Nigeria’s northeastern Borno state, where the terrorist group is attempting to carve itself out an Islamic “caliphate” based on a bloodthirsty interpretation of sharia law.  So far, Boko Haram has killed more than 2,000 people this year.

“I am still searching for motives behind the mass killing and destruction,” said the chief of the local government Shettima Lawan, who called the attack “wicked and despicable”.

The terrorists rampaged through the village of Azaya Kura in the Mafa area in Borno state, riding in truck and shooting at everything.  They killed dozens of people, and made off with food and livestock.

“We counted 45 bodies at the end of the attack,” village chief Mallam Bulama said.  But residents said the death toll might be higher, until they can account for neighbors who fled into the bush for cover.

It’s been a year and a half since Nigerian president Goodluck Jonathan declared a state of emergency in Borno and two neighboring states.  And it’s been seven months since the terrorists rode into Chibok town and abducted more than 200 girls from a boarding school, apparently selling them into forced marriages with terrorists. 

Nigerian military officials have been less than forthcoming about Boko Haram atrocities and territorial gains, and have often flat-out lied about peace talks, hostage negotiations, and army advances.  There is a growing sense that the Nigerian government is incapable or unwilling to tackle Boko Haram, although why that is remains a mystery.

“(Government officials) are busy with political campaigns, while Boko Haram is killing us like chickens,” said one frustrated Nigerian to a local newspaper.