A disturbing video allegedly released by suspected bandits has caused fear and concern after showing armed men displaying heavy weapons and claiming they are available for use in a Nigerian town.
The video, which has been widely shared on social media, shows a group of men holding rifles and what appear to be more powerful weapons. In the footage, the individuals are seen openly advertising the weapons and suggesting they could supply them to local militias.
The development has increased concerns about the spread of illegal arms and the growing confidence of criminal groups operating in different parts of the country.
As of the time of filing this report, security agencies have not released an official statement confirming the authenticity of the video or giving details of any action taken. However, security experts and community leaders are calling for urgent investigation.
Nigeria has struggled for years with insecurity linked to banditry, kidnapping, terrorism and communal clashes. In many northern states, armed groups have carried out attacks on villages, highways and schools, often demanding ransom from victims.
The video has renewed worries about how easily criminal groups appear to access high-powered weapons. In the footage, the armed men are seen handling rifles confidently and speaking openly about their availability.
Although the exact location of the video has not been officially confirmed, its circulation has unsettled many Nigerians who fear that armed groups are becoming more organized.
At the time of this report, neither the police nor the military has confirmed whether the video is recent or where it was recorded.
Security agencies often investigate such footage carefully to verify its origin before making public statements. Officials usually examine details such as landscape, language spoken, and background sounds to determine authenticity.
A senior security analyst said that while social media helps expose criminal activity, it can also spread fear if not properly verified.
“We must not panic, but we must also not ignore it,” the analyst said. “The government needs to investigate quickly and let the public know what is being done.”
In recent years, the Federal Government has launched several operations aimed at tackling armed banditry and illegal arms. Joint task forces involving the Nigerian Army, the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies have carried out raids in forests and remote communities suspected to be hideouts of armed groups.
Despite these efforts, attacks have continued in some areas, especially in parts of the North-West and North-Central regions.
Community leaders and civil society groups have reacted to the video by urging residents to remain alert and cooperate with law enforcement agencies.
They warned that the spread of illegal weapons poses a serious threat to public safety and national stability. According to them, communities must support security agencies by reporting suspicious movements and activities.
A community leader in one of the affected regions said residents are worried about the message the video sends.
“When criminals can openly display weapons like this, it creates fear. People start to feel that nobody is safe,” he said.
Civil society organisations also stressed the need for better border control and stronger laws against illegal arms trafficking.
Banditry has become one of Nigeria’s most serious security challenges over the past decade. Armed groups have attacked farming communities, abducted students, and blocked major highways.
In response, state governments in some affected areas have set up local vigilante groups to support official security forces. However, experts warn that without proper regulation, the rise of militias can also lead to misuse of weapons.
The latest video has raised fears that criminal groups may be trying to expand their influence by supplying arms to other actors.
They also stress the importance of addressing root causes of insecurity such as poverty, unemployment and weak law enforcement.
For now, Nigerians are waiting for an official response from the authorities regarding the video.
Many hope that security agencies will quickly verify the footage, identify those involved, and take necessary action to prevent further threats.
While investigations are expected to continue, the incident serves as another reminder of the security challenges facing the country.
