Collins Nosa Atohengbe

Buba says the group was not initially considered a threat. However, it increased its presence in Nigeria after the July 2023 military coup in Niger, which brought a stop to joint military patrols along the countries' borders.

Residents say the group killed at least 15 people last Friday in its most high profile attack to date.

“It is indeed the first attempt by the Sahelian jihadist to have a foot in our country… They were out at bay all this while we had joint cross border cooperation with the republic of Niger. However, when the coup took place, Niger took advantage of the cooperation between both countries which has not been restored. We know here they are,” Buba said.

--ChannelAfrica--