Crime

Fresh Killings and Abductions Rock Northern Nigeria After U.S. Strikes

Published by admin on January 3rd, 2026.

Fresh Killings and Abductions Rock Northern Nigeria After U.S. Strikes

Armed attacks have surged across several states in northern Nigeria in the days following United States airstrikes against Islamic State–affiliated fighters in Sokoto State.

A review of security incidents reported by *The Punch* indicates that between December 25, 2025, and January 2, 2026, at least 47 people were killed while no fewer than 35 others were abducted. The attacks were carried out by bandit groups as well as militants linked to Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP).

The violence affected multiple states, including Adamawa, Zamfara, Kwara, Plateau, Nasarawa, Yobe, Kano, and Kebbi.

The escalation followed air operations announced on Christmas Day by U.S. President Donald Trump, who said the strikes targeted Islamic State militants operating in north-western Nigeria. He warned that further military action could follow if attacks against Christian communities persisted. Nigeria’s Defence Headquarters later confirmed the strikes, stating that intelligence reports had identified terrorist camps in the area and that assessments of the operation were still underway.

Despite the airstrikes, fresh attacks have been recorded across the region. In Adamawa State, Boko Haram fighters reportedly killed 14 people during nighttime raids on the villages of Mubang and Zar, located near the Sambisa Forest. The chairman of Hong Local Government Area, Usman Inuwa, confirmed the incident.

In Plateau State, gunmen killed at least seven farmers in Jos South Local Government Area. Zamfara State also recorded violence, where an assault on Sabon-Layi village left two people dead and 16 women abducted.

Kebbi State witnessed coordinated attacks on several villages, resulting in the deaths of at least eight residents. In Kwara State, the traditional ruler of Ifelodun Local Government Area, Oba S.Y. Olaonipekun, and one of his sons were abducted by gunmen.

ISWAP also claimed responsibility for a mortar attack on a Nigerian military base in Goniri, Yobe State, although the extent of the damage remains unclear.

In Kano State, bandits attacked multiple communities in Shanono Local Government Area, engaging security forces in prolonged gun battles. The Nigerian Army later said the attackers were repelled and that no civilian casualties were recorded.

The report further noted indications that militant groups may be relocating following the U.S. strikes, with local sources suggesting attempts to move into parts of Niger and Kaduna states through border routes.

Meanwhile, Sokoto State has recorded no fresh attacks since the airstrikes. Residents in the area attributed the calm to the destruction of militant hideouts during the operation.