ISWAP claims responsibility for terrorist attacks in Nigeria

The Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) has claimed responsibility for multiple deadly attacks in Nigeria’s northeastern regions earlier this month, Reuters reported. According to seven messages posted on its news agency “Amaq,” ISWAP targeted Nigerian security forces and Christian civilians.

In Borno state, ISWAP attacked a Nigerian army barracks in Yamtage town, killing three soldiers and setting the barracks ablaze. The group also captured and killed four pro-government militia members loyal to the Nigerian army.

In Adamawa state, ISWAP claimed two attacks on Banga village, a Christian community. The first attack on April 15 resulted in the deaths of two Christians and the burning of over 30 houses and a church. The second attack on April 16 targeted a police patrol, damaging a vehicle and injuring several officers.

ISWAP also released images showing the burning of Christian homes and a church in Lareh village, Adamawa, though no claim was made for this assault. The Nigerian government has vowed to crush these groups, boosting its defense budget by over 40% this year.