Abuja: Militants have killed more than 160 people in a series of deadly attacks on rural communities in northern and western Nigeria, deepening fears about worsening insecurity across the country.
The deadliest assault took place in villages in Kwara State, where militants stormed communities, set homes on fire and killed residents over several days. Local officials and survivors said entire families were caught in the violence, with many people burned inside their houses or shot while trying to flee. Lawmakers warned that the death toll could still rise as bodies are recovered from surrounding areas.
At around the same time, separate attacks were reported in Katsina State in northern Nigeria. Militants raided villages late at night, killing dozens of people and forcing many others to escape into nearby forests. Residents said the attackers arrived on motorcycles and overpowered local vigilantes before carrying out the killings.
Security analysts say the attacks reflect a growing pattern of coordinated violence by militant groups targeting isolated farming communities. Many of these areas have little or no permanent security presence, leaving residents exposed to repeated raids.
Nigerian authorities said troops and police have been deployed to the affected regions to restore order and hunt down those responsible. The federal government has also promised stronger military operations and better protection for vulnerable communities, though residents say help often arrives after the damage is done.
Nigeria has struggled for years with militant violence, banditry and kidnappings, especially in the north. Despite repeated security operations, attacks on villages continue, adding to a humanitarian crisis that has displaced millions and left many communities living in constant fear.