Northern Nigeria is under a multifaceted siege from a fluid network of armed groups that blend local banditry with foreign jihadist tactics, creating a hybrid insurgency that has paralyzed communities across at least nine states through kidnappings, raids, and extortion.
A detailed investigation reveals that Northern Nigeria is besieged by a complex and adaptable network of armed groups operating across at least nine states, from Sokoto to Kogi. These networks represent a dangerous hybrid threat, merging profit-driven local bandits with foreign jihadist elements fleeing instability in Mali and Niger, resulting in more coordinated and lethal operations.
Groups like the ideologically motivated Lakurawa and the financially driven Mahmuda exploit forested terrain to launch attacks, enforce strict rules, and establish parallel governments, leaving communities in constant fear. As one resident in Gudu, Sokoto, described, “Every night we hear gunshots and motorcycles. People no longer sleep at home,” a sentiment echoed across the region where villagers are forced to flee their homes, farms are abandoned, and local economies have collapsed, creating a profound humanitarian and security crisis.
“Every night we hear gunshots and motorcycles. People no longer sleep at home. We flee to the bush whenever we sense danger.” – A trader in Gudu, Sokoto State.
“Lakurawa came to our village, told us to pray five times a day, and burned houses of those who resisted. We have no choice but to obey.” – A villager in Tangaza, Sokoto State.
“We live in fear. Bandits come at night, take our children, burn our farms. We cannot go to our fields without security escort.” – A farmer in Birnin Gwari, Kaduna State.
“They come in over 100 motorcycles, three men per bike. We patrol, but the terrain makes it difficult.” – Isyaku Umar, vice chairman of Faruruwa community security committee, Kano State.
“They killed three of our members and took 38 of us. They know the forest, they know their targets. Nobody can run.” – A survivor of the CAC Oke-Isegun attack in Eruku, Kwara State.
“The armed herdsmen attacking Benue have one mission: to kill, maim, rape, sack our people, and occupy the land.” – Chief Iorbee Ihagh, Chairman of Benue Tribal Leaders.
“They demand levies before we can harvest. If we refuse, they burn farms and abduct people. We are trapped.” – A farmer in Zuru, Kebbi State.