Christians in a town in Kebbi State Nigeria have reportedly been presented with an ultimatum by an Islamist terrorist group demanding they convert, leave, or pay a tax.

The ultimatum came from a relatively new group known as the Lakurawa.

They emerged a few years ago promising to protect locals from bandits and cattle thieves. However, the group soon began making more ideological demands, checking people’s phones and having them flogged if they had music on them.

Nigeria designated the Lakurawa as a terrorist group in January 2025, accusing it of hostage taking, attacks on officials and cattle theft.

In the most recent outrage, members of the group opened fire on a local Evangelical church. At least one person was wounded.

Nigerian authorities have long been criticised for their failure to take action against the militant and bandit groups that plague parts of the country.