Violence Surges in Nigeria as Kidnappings & Bandit Raids Wreak Havoc

A wave of raids, kidnappings, and communal violence across multiple Nigerian states underscores a widening security crisis, with large-scale abductions and attacks targeting rural population intensify.

In Zamfara state on April 4, gunmen raided Kurfa Danya and Kurfan Magaji villages in Bukkuyum, abducting more than 150 people, mostly women and children, according to local officials.

Attackers opened fire on homes and vehicles before moving residents into forest areas, leaving villages largely deserted. Police confirmed the incident but said numbers were still being verified, while joint security teams were deployed.

In Kaduna state, the army said it rescued 31 hostages following an attack on a church in Ariko village during Easter services. At least 5 people were found dead, while locals said 7 were killed and others abducted.

“Findings are still ongoing,” said Caleb Maaji, reflecting uncertainty over the full scale of casualties. Troops remain in pursuit of the attackers.

In Benue state, Amnesty International condemned an attack in Mbalom, Gwer East, where 17 people were killed during Easter celebrations and dozens injured. Gunmen also burned homes and shops, with families still searching for missing relatives.

The organization said repeated attacks have displaced over 500,000 people, many living in poor conditions with limited access to water, food, and healthcare.

Violence has also triggered unrest in Plateau state, where mob clashes in Jos left at least 2 dead days after an earlier attack killed about 30 people in Anguwan Rukuba.

Across these incidents, patterns of mass abductions, raids, and retaliatory violence point to a sustained security challenge. Armed groups continue operating from forest hideouts, complicating response efforts.

Residents described living in constant fear, with communities “helpless and on edge” amid repeated attacks, even as authorities insist operations are ongoing.