29 Killed as ISWAP Takes Responsibility for Adamawa Massacre

The extremist group Islamic State West Africa(ISWAP) has claimed responsibility for a deadly attack on a community football pitch in northeastern Nigeria, where at least 29 people were killed in Adamawa State.

The attack occurred in Guyaku village in Gombi Local Government Area, where residents had gathered to watch a local football match when armed men stormed the area and opened fire indiscriminately.

Eyewitnesses and local officials said the assailants shot at spectators; many of them youths, and set fire to homes, places of worship, and motorcycles during the hours-long assault.

The West Africa regional affiliate of IS later claimed responsibility for the attack via a statement on Telegram, although it did not provide detailed justification for the attack.

Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri condemned the killings, describing the incident as an “affront to our humanity” during a visit to the affected community.

Security analysts note that northeastern Nigeria remains a hotspot for insurgent violence, with IS-linked groups such as ISWAP and other armed factions continuing to carry out attacks on civilian populations.

The latest incident underscores ongoing concerns about insecurity in the region, where militant groups frequently target rural communities, despite continued military operations.

Authorities say efforts are underway to track down the perpetrators and prevent further attacks.