Militant Group Issues Ultimatum to Christian Community in Nigeria

Residents of the Ungwan Mato community in Nigeria’s Kebbi State have reportedly received an ultimatum from an Islamist militant group known as the Lakurawa. According to Christian Solidarity Worldwide, the group has demanded that local Christians renounce their faith, convert, leave the area, or pay a tax. The Lakurawa, which Nigerian authorities designated as a terrorist organization in January 2025, initially gained local influence by promising protection from bandits before shifting toward ideological enforcement.

In a recent incident, militants opened fire on an Evangelical Church Winning All building in the community. While the attackers reportedly intended to burn the structure, they were unable to secure fuel. One person sustained gunshot wounds during the encounter, and the group stole local cattle. While the Nigerian military recently conducted a successful operation that rescued 21 hostages in Kangiwa, advocates are calling for expanded security measures to protect the residents of Ungwan Mato. Mervyn Thomas of Christian Solidarity Worldwide emphasized the need for urgent government intervention and regional cooperation to address the growing threat posed by the insurgents.