Residents Flee as ISWAP Terrorists Issue Ultimatum in Kukawa

Scores of residents in Kukawa Local Government Area have fled their homes following an ultimatum issued by ISWAP terrorists, demanding they leave or face death.

Last Sunday night, over 35 fishermen were reportedly killed in an attack by ISWAP fighters. Sources familiar with the incident confirmed that at least 25 people were severely wounded, and around 30 are still missing.

According to reports, ISWAP and the residents had coexisted without conflict for over a year. However, tensions escalated recently, leading to the deadly attack. “They claimed they wanted to preach to us, and we were deceived. Instead, they gathered us, and their commander ordered our execution, accusing us of spying for their enemies,” recounted one survivor.

Another survivor detailed the horrific events: “They opened fire on us. At least 35 people were killed, and over 30 managed to escape. One of the terrorists was punished by their commander for allowing some of us to flee. Ten more people have returned this morning, so more than 30 people are still missing. We don’t know if they are alive or dead.”

The terrorists had assembled many residents and issued a chilling ultimatum, leading to widespread panic. Modu Kukawa Ba’nna reported that the fleeing residents are now divided into two groups, with some currently in Tunbun Rogo, where more than 35 people were killed.

“We were gathered this morning by the terrorist group and warned. They said the deadline is Saturday, starting from today. If we don’t leave the area by Saturday, we will face the consequences. Many have left for Monguno, and we are leaving tomorrow before the deadline,” said Ba’nna. “Some people have decided to stay, saying it is better to live under terrorists than face starvation in the IDP camps.”

The situation remains dire as the community grapples with uncertainty and fear. There are urgent calls for the government and security agencies to take action to protect the community and prevent further attacks.

An anonymous source revealed that Kukawa town has been under ISWAP control, with residents used as human shields for more than a year. They paid dues and taxes to the terrorists due to the absence of local authorities. The recent attacks are believed to be retaliation for suspected betrayals by locals, suspected of spying on ISWAP movements.

The victims were fishermen from Monguno, Doron Baga, Cross Kauwa, and Baga towns. At the time of filing this report, the authorities had yet to comment on the incident.