Security analyst Brant Philip confirmed the attack on Thursday after reviewing video footage released by the militant group. According to Philip’s statement on X (formerly Twitter), ISWAP disseminated images showing a Christian village engulfed in flames.
Security sources suggest the attack may be retaliatory following recent coordinated airstrikes conducted by Nigerian and United States military forces against a terrorist stronghold in Sokoto State. The joint operation was confirmed by U.S. President Donald Trump, who announced American military involvement in strikes targeting militant positions in northwestern Nigeria.
The incident underscores the ongoing security challenges facing religious communities in Nigeria’s northeastern region, where ISWAP and other militant groups continue to operate despite military counteroffensive efforts.