Fresh violence has erupted across several northern states barely days after United States airstrikes targeted Islamic State-linked fighters in parts of Sokoto State.
The attacks, carried out by bandits, Boko Haram and ISWAP fighters, appeared to be a direct show of defiance, as communities came under renewed assaults despite the foreign military action.
Between December 25, 2025, and January 2, 2026, at least 47 people were killed, while no fewer than 35 others were abducted across different states in the North. Several others were injured during the attacks.
The violence spread across Adamawa, Zamfara, Kwara, Plateau, Nasarawa, Yobe, Kano, Kebbi, Kogi and parts of Niger axis, according to reports from affected communities.
President Donald Trump had announced on Christmas Day that U.S. forces carried out deadly strikes on Islamic State terrorists in Northwestern Nigeria. He also warned that further attacks would follow if the militants continued killing Christians.
Nigeria’s Defence Headquarters later confirmed the operation, stating that intelligence reports validated the presence of terrorists in the targeted locations, while assessment of the strikes was ongoing.
Despite this, armed groups intensified operations shortly after.
In Kogi State, gunmen attacked Omi-Ara community in Yagba West Local Government Area and abducted several residents. Another attack followed in nearby Odo-Ere community, where at least four people were taken away.
In Kwara State, bandits stormed Adanla community in Ifelodun Local Government Area, abducting over eight residents. The traditional ruler of Aafin community, Oba S. Y. Olaonipekun, was also abducted alongside one of his sons, a serving corps member.
Kebbi State witnessed coordinated attacks on Kaiwa, Gelawu and Gebbe villages in Shanga Local Government Area, leaving at least eight people dead.
In Zamfara, gunmen attacked Sabon-Layi village in Gusau Local Government Area. Two people were killed, 16 women were abducted, and several residents sustained injuries.
Plateau State also recorded violence as suspected attackers killed at least seven farmers in Bum community, Jos South Local Government Area.
In Nasarawa State, three people were killed and nine others injured during an attack on Kunza community in Lafia Local Government Area.
ISWAP also claimed responsibility for firing mortars at a Nigerian military camp in Goniri, Yobe State. The extent of damage remains unclear.
In Adamawa State, Boko Haram fighters killed 14 people during night attacks on Mubang and Zar villages in Hong Local Government Area. Several houses and food supplies were burnt during the invasion.
Kano State was not spared. Bandits attacked villages in Shanono Local Government Area, leading to a prolonged gun battle with security forces. Residents reported heavy movement of armed men on motorcycles during the assault.
Security sources have also raised concerns that terrorists displaced by the U.S. airstrikes may be relocating through Katsina, Zamfara, Kebbi and into Niger and Kaduna states. Increased vigilance and aerial surveillance have since been reported in these areas.
However, Sokoto State has remained largely calm since the airstrikes. Residents in previously affected communities said no fresh attacks had been recorded, raising hopes that the military action disrupted criminal hideouts.
