New Mahmuda Terror Group Wreaks Havoc in North-Central Nigeria – Over 15 Vigilantes Slaughtered in Brutal Attack

 By: Manoah kikekon 

A deadly new terror faction, Mahmuda, has surfaced in Nigeria’s North-Central region, unleashing violence on rural communities near Kainji Lake National Park (KLNP), SaharaReporters can confirm.  

The group operates with impunity, striking villages across Kwara and Niger states, including:  Kaiama LGA (Kemaanji, Tenebo, Baabete, Nuku, Nanu), Barutein LGA (Yashikira District villages) and Borgu LGA (Babana, Wawa District)  

In a recent bloody ambush, the militants slaughtered over 15 vigilantes and villagers in Kemanji, sending shockwaves through the region.  

A source revealed: “They call themselves Mahmuda. Their leader issued a chilling voice note threatening communities. They kill, kidnap, and demand ransoms.”

Another insider warned: “With Kainji Lake National Park unguarded, militants, loggers, and hunters exploit the chaos for profit.”

Expelled from Mokwa LGA under ex-Governor Muazu Babangida Aliyu (accused of Boko Haram ties).  Fled to Welele (Kaiama LGA), then Kaduna forests, before regrouping in KLNP.  Now control 3,970 sq. km, imposing brutal taxes (zakah) on herders, farmers, and even settling local disputes.  

 

Claims to be "moderate Islamists", possibly a Boko Haram splinter group.  Recruiting locals as informants, banning alcohol, and enforcing Sharia-like rules.  Suspected illegal mining operations within the park.  

Despite their sophisticated weapons and open control, authorities remain silent. Locals fear collusion, as security forces fail to intervene.  

“They’ve become the law—collecting taxes, kidnapping, and even judging cases. Who’s backing them?” a source questioned.  

With bandits, militants, and armed groups seizing unprotected zones, Nigeria’s security crisis worsens. Will the Mahmuda Group become the next major threat?