Bandits Claim Kebbi, Niger Abductions, Threaten Attacks on Soldiers and Politicians

A newly released video from an armed terrorist group has surfaced online, in which the group claims responsibility for the recent student abductions in Kebbi and Niger states and threatens additional attacks targeting security personnel and political leaders.

The footage, which began circulating on social media on Monday, features an armed spokesman speaking in Hausa. Surrounded by other gunmen, he boasts that the group intends to intensify its operations and asserts that the government is unable to stop them.

The video has sparked widespread discussion and concern across online platforms, as many citizens question the increasing boldness and confidence displayed by the terrorists.

According to NIGERIA NEWS 247, the video emerged barely a week after the kidnapping of 25 students from Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School, Maga, in Kebbi State, and the raid on St. Mary’s Catholic School in Papiri, Agwara LGA of Niger State, where more than 300 students and 12 teachers were abducted. The release of the video has heightened public anxiety in northern communities already struggling with frequent attacks by bandits and other armed groups.

Security experts warn that the video underscores the worsening security situation and the growing audacity of terrorist elements operating with limited resistance.

Nigerians reacting on X expressed anger and deep frustration over the country’s escalating insecurity. “This kind of boast shouldn’t even be possible in a functioning country. How did we get here?” wrote @TaraBlinz.

Another user, @justkency, commented, “The current state of Nigeria. Criminals are now emboldened enough to issue statements.”

Similarly, @n95ly added, “Government officials should be the ones facing this. Leave innocent citizens out of it.”