Gunmen riding motorbikes killed 22 people during a baptism ceremony in Niger’s western Tillabéri region, near the borders with Mali and Burkina Faso. Witnesses described the assault as indiscriminate, underscoring the deteriorating security situation under the military government.

Deadly Attack on Civilians

Residents reported that 15 people were killed at the baptism before the attackers moved to nearby areas, killing seven more. Civil rights activist Maikoul Zodi wrote online that the assailants “sowed death and terror” during the ceremony. Local media described the killings as “gruesome,” while authorities confirmed an attack but withheld casualty figures.

Rising Jihadist Violence in Tillabéri

Tillabéri has become one of the Sahel’s most violent frontlines, with armed groups linked to al-Qaeda and Islamic State staging frequent raids. Human Rights Watch said jihadists had killed more than 127 villagers since March, including Muslim worshippers, and burned dozens of homes. Last week, 14 Nigerien soldiers were killed in an ambush, further straining the army.

Military Junta Under Pressure

Niger has been ruled by a junta since Gen. Abdourahmane Tchiani seized power in 2023. Alongside Mali and Burkina Faso, Niger expelled French and US forces, shifting toward Russia and Türkiye for support under their Alliance of Sahel States pact. Analysts note that despite this realignment, insurgent violence continues to rise, fueling criticism of the regime’s inability to protect civilians.

Calls for Protection and Accountability

Local activists have pressed the government to boost state presence in rural areas and prioritize citizens’ security. “It is time for concrete answers,” Maikoul Zodi posted, urging authorities to prove that “every Nigerien life matters.” Aid agencies warn that displacement and trauma are deepening as attacks increase, while humanitarian access remains limited.