At least 22 people have been killed in separate terrorist attacks on communities in Kebbi and Adamawa states, deepening security concerns across northern Nigeria.
In Kebbi State, suspected Lakurawa terrorists reportedly carried out a reprisal attack on Dadinkowa community in Maiyama Local Government Area, killing five worshippers inside a mosque during evening prayers on Wednesday.
Residents said the attackers stormed the area from nearby hills and opened fire indiscriminately before targeting worshippers observing prayers. Three other persons sustained injuries and were taken to hospital for treatment.
A community member, Nasiru Abdullahi, said the gunmen arrived in large numbers and attacked without warning, leaving the community in mourning. Religious leaders described the incident as tragic, noting that the killings occurred during the Ramadan period.
Kebbi State Governor, Nasir Idris, who visited the affected community, condemned the attack as barbaric and assured residents that security personnel had been deployed to restore safety.
Police authorities confirmed the incident, stating that the mosque attack was believed to be retaliation following an earlier military operation in which troops killed several suspected Lakurawa fighters after an ambush on a military convoy.
17 Killed in Adamawa Attack
In a separate incident, suspected Boko Haram insurgents attacked Shuwari community in Madagali Local Government Area of Adamawa State, killing at least 17 people.
Residents said the gunmen invaded the village on Tuesday evening, opened fire on civilians, and burned houses and business premises before fleeing. Among those killed was the village head, Ignatus Papka Bademi.
A local resident, Shuaibu Gulak, described the attack as traumatic, lamenting that persistent insurgent violence has made farming and daily life increasingly dangerous for residents.
Adamawa State Governor, Ahmadu Fintiri, visited the community to sympathise with victims and families of the deceased, condemning the assault as cowardly and unacceptable. He also directed relevant agencies to provide relief materials and assess damages for recovery support.
Madagali remains one of the frontline areas affected by insurgency due to its proximity to the Sambisa forest, a long-time stronghold of extremist groups.
Rising Regional Violence
Meanwhile, security analysts have warned of escalating militant activities across the Nigeria–Niger–Benin border region. Data from conflict monitoring organisations indicate a sharp rise in violent incidents, with fatalities linked to extremist groups increasing significantly in recent years.
Authorities say efforts are ongoing to strengthen security coordination and prevent further attacks across vulnerable communities.
