The Islamic State of West Africa Province (ISWAP) has reportedly continued its violent attacks on communities in Northeast Nigeria, with a fresh incident involving the burning of a Christian village in Adamawa State.
A security expert, Brant Philip, disclosed the development on Thursday while reacting to a viral video released by the terrorists.
According to Philip, ISWAP circulated an image of the burning community alongside a statement declaring that Christians in Nigeria are “legitimate targets.” The group further threatened that Christians could only “spare their blood” by converting to Islam or paying the jizyah tax to the terrorists.
The latest attack is believed to be retaliation for the recent joint airstrikes carried out by Nigerian and United States military forces on a terrorist enclave in Sokoto State.
Recall that about five days ago, U.S. President Donald Trump announced that American forces had launched airstrikes targeting terrorists in Sokoto.
Security analysts have expressed concern that the group’s threats represent an escalation in rhetoric and pose increased risks to already vulnerable communities in the region.
Authorities are yet to formally react to the latest claims as efforts to restore peace and protect affected residents continue.