A new terror group known as Mahmuda has emerged in the North Central part of Nigeria, terrorizing residents of rural communities around the Kainji Lake National Park, which spans parts of Kwara State and Niger State.
The group has attacked communities in Kaiama Local Government Area and Barutein Local Government Area in Kwara, as well as Babana and Wawa District in Borgu Local Government in Niger.
On Wednesday, the militants attacked a vigilante group in Kemanji, killing over 15 members and villagers.
The group’s leader has been threatening communities, killing and kidnapping victims, and demanding ransom.
Sources claim the group has taken over communities and is involved in illegal activities such as logging and mining, with some residents being forced to pay dues and work on their farms.
The group’s true identity is still unknown, but an audio recording suggests they are a sect of Boko Haram that broke away from the Shekau-led extremist group.
The activities of the Mahmuda group have resulted in community members living at the mercy of the militants, who control a vast territory and regulate social activities, including the sale of alcohol and settlement of disputes.
