Nigeria: Dozens killed in attacks on 3 villages
Deutsche Welle
February 15, 2026
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Dozens of people were killed in Nigeria when armed gunmen attacked three villages in northwestern Niger State, including Tunga-Makeri, Konkoso, and Pissa. The early morning raids left at least 30 dead, with several individuals reported missing, raising fears that the death toll could rise further. Homes were set ablaze during the assaults, which occurred amid increasing insecurity in northern Nigeria, where both jihadist groups and armed gangs, known as "bandits," have been actively operating. The attacks highlight the ongoing challenges faced by local communities and the broader instability gripping the region.
The villages attacked are located near the border with Kwara State, an area already reeling from recent violence. Earlier this month, Islamist militants killed over 160 people in Kwara, underscoring the vulnerability of these regions to large-scale attacks. The latest raids have added to the growing sense of insecurity in northern Nigeria, where both Christians and Muslims are affected by the violence. Authorities in Niger State confirmed the attacks, with police spokesperson Wasiu Abiodun stating that six lives were lost in Tunga-Makeri alone, while several individuals were abducted during the chaos.
The situation has drawn international attention, particularly from the United States. In recent months, U.S. President Donald Trump made headlines by claiming that Christians in Nigeria are facing persecution and genocide at the hands of terrorists. Nigerian officials have rejected these claims, emphasizing that the violence affects all communities regardless of religion. Despite this, the U
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Originally published on Deutsche Welle on 2/15/2026