ISWAP Terrorists Repelled in Chibok: Troops, Vigilantes Fight Back as Two Civilians Killed, Two Injured

 

In a major security development in Northeast Nigeria, troops under Operation Hadin Kai, supported by local vigilante groups and civilian hunters, successfully repelled a brazen attack by suspected Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) fighters in Shikarkir village, located in the troubled Chibok Local Government Area of Borno State. The attack, which occurred around 5:20 p.m. on Monday, June 23, 2025, is the latest in a series of violent incursions by terrorist elements operating in the region.

According to security analyst Zagazola Makama, who has consistently reported on the insurgency in Northeast Nigeria, the insurgents stormed the quiet rural village with the intention to cause chaos and possibly abduct or kill innocent residents. However, what they met on arrival was not a defenseless population, but a coordinated, determined and effective resistance mounted by Nigerian Army troops and community-based security volunteers.

“The insurgents who stormed the village at about 5:20 p.m. on Monday, June 23, 2025, were met with swift resistance from troops, assisted by local vigilantes and hunters,” Makama reported.

How the Attack Unfolded in Chibok

Eyewitnesses and local security sources told NaijaRush that heavily armed ISWAP fighters, numbering more than a dozen, descended on Shikarkir village in a convoy of motorcycles and possibly an armoured utility vehicle. Their sudden appearance caused panic among villagers, many of whom fled into the surrounding bush for safety.

However, the Nigerian military—already on high alert following recent intelligence of possible ISWAP movements—reacted swiftly. Local hunters and vigilantes who know the terrain well joined the military forces, creating a formidable line of defense.

A fierce gun battle broke out, reportedly lasting for over 40 minutes. Residents described the sounds of heavy gunfire and sporadic shooting that echoed through the small farming community as soldiers and the terrorists exchanged fire. The combined firepower of the military and local forces eventually overwhelmed the attackers, forcing them to retreat into the Sambisa Forest, where they are believed to have regrouped.

“Security forces engaged the attackers in a gun duel, forcing them to retreat after sustaining unspecified casualties,” according to Makama’s report.

Though the ISWAP fighters suffered losses, the number of casualties on their side has not been officially confirmed. Security experts believe that at least three insurgents may have been killed in the exchange, while several others sustained injuries but managed to flee.

Civilian Casualties: Two Lives Lost, Two Others Injured

Unfortunately, despite the success in pushing back the terrorists, four innocent civilians were hit by stray bullets during the gunfight. Tragically, two of them lost their lives, while two others were seriously injured and are currently undergoing treatment.

The deceased were identified as:

• Ishaku Markson, aged 30, a newlywed who was married just in March 2025.

• Buba Zakariya, aged 28.

Both men reportedly sustained critical gunshot wounds and were rushed to the General Hospital in Chibok, where they were later confirmed dead.

“Two of the victims, identified as Ishaku Markson, 30, and Buba Zakariya, 28, sustained fatal injuries and were later confirmed dead at the General Hospital in Chibok,” Makama reported.

Their sudden deaths have thrown their families and the community into mourning. A local elder who spoke to NaijaRush on condition of anonymity said:

“Ishaku just got married not long ago. He was a humble farmer who was trying to start his new life with his wife. We are heartbroken.”

The two other civilians who were injured are:

• Yama Wadai, 41

• Maina Fali (age not disclosed)

They were also taken to the General Hospital in Chibok where they are currently being treated for gunshot wounds.

“Medical personnel confirmed both are responding well to treatment.”

This news has provided a small measure of relief to the community, as many feared the worst.

Growing Threat of ISWAP in the Northeast

The attack on Shikarkir is part of a larger pattern of ISWAP aggression in Borno and surrounding areas. ISWAP, a breakaway faction of Boko Haram, has intensified its operations in the Lake Chad Basin, Sambisa Forest, and the rural communities of Chibok, Damboa, and Askira-Uba.

Their tactics often include:

• Surprise raids on villages

• Ambushes on military convoys

• Abductions of women and children

• Looting of food and medical supplies

• Destruction of communication infrastructure

In recent months, intelligence reports have warned of a possible resurgence of ISWAP activity, especially as the rainy season makes surveillance and response operations more difficult for security forces.

Local Vigilantes and Hunters: The Unsung Heroes

One of the standout elements of Monday’s attack was the bravery and dedication of local vigilantes and civilian hunters, who stood shoulder-to-shoulder with trained Nigerian soldiers to protect their community. These local defense units, many of whom operate with little to no formal training or government support, have become a critical part of the fight against insurgency in the Northeast.

Their deep knowledge of the terrain, ability to navigate forests and farmlands, and commitment to protecting their own people have made them indispensable allies in the military’s counter-terrorism efforts.

Security analyst Zagazola Makama and others have repeatedly called for the government to provide these groups with more support, including weapons, stipends, and training.

Government and Security Agencies Urged to Do More

As the people of Chibok mourn the deaths of Ishaku and Buba and pray for the recovery of Yama and Maina, there are renewed calls for the Federal Government and Borno State Government to intensify their investments in security and rehabilitation.

Residents are demanding:

• Permanent military outposts in vulnerable areas

• Rebuilding of damaged infrastructure

• Provision of trauma counselling for affected families

• Swift compensation for victims

Security experts also argue that beyond the military angle, economic empowerment, job creation, and education must be key components in weakening insurgent recruitment in the region.

Conclusion: Shikarkir Fights Back

The incident in Shikarkir is a painful reminder of the cost of Nigeria’s ongoing war against terrorism. While the successful repulsion of ISWAP fighters demonstrates the resilience of the Nigerian military and local communities, the death of civilians like Ishaku Markson and Buba Zakariya underscores the human tragedy behind every headline.

As Operation Hadin Kai continues its mission to restore peace in the Northeast, Chibok—and all of Nigeria—must not forget the sacrifice of those who stand guard, both in uniform and as ordinary citizens.