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Suspected Islamists Kill Over 40 in Attacks on Nine Communities in Northwestern Nigeria
Suspected Islamist militants killed more than 40 people in attacks on at least nine communities in Kebbi State and neighboring Niger State in northwestern Nigeria. The violence began late on Sunday and continued for three days, affecting Christians, Muslims, and traditional worshippers. Over 500 residents have fled to Yauri town, where churches and schools are serving as shelters.
Apr 8, 2:17 PM·1m read1 source
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Suspected Islamist militants carried out attacks in northwestern Nigeria, killing more than 40 people over three days. The violence targeted at least nine communities in Kebbi State and neighboring Niger State. A local religious leader reported the incidents to reporters.
The attacks began late on Sunday. One clergyman, speaking anonymously due to safety concerns, stated that 24 people from areas with his community members were killed, with reports indicating a total exceeding 40. A second Christian leader confirmed the death toll of approximately 40.
the Attacks The militants killed people indiscriminately, including Christians, Muslims, and traditional worshippers.
They set fire to places of worship, Muslim residences, livestock such as sheep and cattle, and grain stores. The violence has left communities unable to bury their dead, according to the clergyman.
“They killed everybody in sight, they killed Christians, Muslims, and traditional worshippers. They killed indiscriminately.”
fewer than 500 residents have fled their homes to Yauri town in Kebbi State. Churches and educational facilities there have been converted into emergency shelters for the displaced. Local inhabitants and law enforcement officials have attributed the attacks to the Mahmuda group, though no organization has claimed responsibility.
The Mahmuda group is named after Mahmud al-Nigeri, a senior figure in the Ansaru jihadist organization. Ansaru splintered from Boko Haram and has aligned with Al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb. Kebbi State borders Benin and Niger and has seen increased jihadist activity since 2025, according to the Armed Conflict Location & Event Data Project (ACLED), which documented a rise in violence by factions linked to al-Qaeda and the Islamic State.
