ISWAP Burns Christian Village In Adamawa

ISWAP Burns Christian Village in Adamawa

Summary: The Islamic State of West Africa Province (ISWAP) has carried out a devastating attack on Christian communities in Adamawa State, Nigeria, burning villages, killing residents, and issuing a chilling ultimatum to convert to Islam or face death.

The Islamic State of West Africa Province (ISWAP), an affiliate of ISIS, struck Christian villages in Adamawa State on December 31, 2025, leaving destruction and fear in its wake. The attack targeted communities in Hong Local Government Area, including Zah, Mubang Yadul, and Kijing. Reports confirm that more than fourteen people were killed, while numerous homes, churches, and businesses were vandalized or set ablaze.

ISWAP released footage and images of the burning villages, accompanied by a statement declaring that all Christians in Nigeria are “legitimate targets.” The group warned that Christians could only “spare their blood” by converting to Islam or paying the jizyah tax, a form of tribute historically imposed on non-Muslims under Islamic rule. This ultimatum underscores ISWAP’s strategy of coercion and intimidation, aiming to dismantle Christian communities in the region.

Security expert Brant Philip, who monitors insurgency activities, confirmed the authenticity of the video and the group’s threats. He noted that the attack was likely a retaliatory move following recent joint airstrikes by Nigerian and U.S. forces against terrorist enclaves in Sokoto State. The timing suggests ISWAP’s intent to demonstrate resilience and retaliate against military pressure by targeting vulnerable civilian populations.

The incident has sparked widespread condemnation. Former presidential aide Bashir Ahmad emphasized that ISWAP’s actions do not represent Islam, stressing that the Qur’an explicitly forbids compulsion in religion. He reminded Nigerians that Islam historically coexisted peacefully with other faiths, and that the terrorists’ threats are a distortion of religious teachings.

The attack highlights the persistent insecurity in Nigeria’s Northeast, where ISWAP and Boko Haram continue to exploit weak rural defenses. Adamawa, once considered relatively safer compared to Borno and Yobe, now faces escalating threats. The burning of Christian villages is not only a humanitarian tragedy but also a symbolic act aimed at instilling fear and asserting dominance over communities that resist extremist ideology.

International observers have expressed concern that ISWAP’s campaign of violence against Christians could intensify sectarian tensions in Nigeria. The group’s declaration that Christians are “legitimate targets” raises fears of further massacres and displacement, deepening the humanitarian crisis in the region.

This attack serves as a grim reminder of the challenges Nigeria faces in its fight against terrorism. Despite military operations and international support, extremist groups continue to adapt and strike at civilian populations.

The destruction of Christian villages in Adamawa underscores the urgent need for stronger community protection, intelligence coordination, and humanitarian support for displaced victims.