A terrorist group has released a new video claiming responsibility for the recent abductions of students in Kebbi and Niger states, while issuing fresh threats against members of the military and political office holders.
The video, which surfaced on Monday and has been widely shared on social media, features an armed spokesman speaking in Hausa. Surrounded by several other gunmen, he boasts that the group will soon begin targeting soldiers and government officials, declaring that the authorities “cannot stop” their operations.
The footage has sparked widespread debate online, with many Nigerians expressing shock at what they describe as the increasing boldness and confidence of armed groups operating across the region.
The emergence of the video comes just days after two major school attacks. Last week, 25 schoolgirls were abducted from Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School, Maga, in Kebbi State. Around the same period, over 300 students and 12 teachers were seized at St Mary’s Catholic School in Papiri, Agwara Local Government Area of Niger State. Both incidents have drawn national and international condemnation.
With communities in the North already battling frequent raids by bandits and extremist groups, the new video has fuelled fears of further violence. Security analysts say the footage underscores the worsening security climate, warning that the terrorists’ confidence stems from the limited deterrence they face on the ground.
Many Nigerians took to X to voice their frustration and despair over the country’s security situation.
“This kind of boast shouldn’t even be possible in a functioning country. How did we get here?” one user, @TaraBlinz, wrote.
Another user, @justkency, commented, “The current state of Nigeria. Criminals are now emboldened enough to issue statements.”
Similarly, @n95ly expressed anger at the threats, stating, “Government officials should be the ones facing this. Leave innocent citizens out of it.”
As the video continues to circulate, public pressure is mounting on the Federal Government and security agencies to act decisively to rescue the abducted students and prevent further attacks.
