ISWAP Takes Credit for Yobe Bloodbath, Claims Village Was Targeted for Collaborating with Nigerian Forces

ISWAP Claims Responsibility for Yobe Village Massacre, Cites ‘Revenge’ as Motive.

The Islamic State in West Africa Province (ISWAP) has taken credit for a brutal attack that left 34 villagers dead in Yobe State, citing “revenge for alleged grievances” as their motive. The attack, which occurred early Monday in Mafa village, Tarmuwa Local Government Area, was reportedly carried out by Boko Haram terrorists.

According to community sources, 86 bodies have been recovered and deposited in hospitals, with the search for remaining victims ongoing. However, ISWAP claimed responsibility for the assault in a letter written in Arabic, stating that the village was targeted for allegedly providing information to the military, leading to the deaths of its members.

The letter, obtained by Daily Trust, warned residents of Mafa and surrounding villages that they would not be harmed if they did not threaten ISWAP’s operations. However, it stated that those who had “stained their hands with our brothers’ blood” would be targeted.

The attack is seen as a retaliatory measure by ISWAP against the village for its alleged cooperation with the military. The incident highlights the ongoing conflict between ISWAP and Nigerian security forces, with civilians often caught in the crossfire.