The Islamic State in West Africa Province (ISWAP) has claimed responsibility for the audacious attack on Kuje Prison in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital.
In a 38 second video released Wednesday night, the terrorist group showed some of its men shooting their way into the facility as they chanted: Allahu Akbar!
Tens of fighters were seen marching in groups while vehicles and buildings were on fire in the video.
An elderly man dressed in a native attire also joined the young men who were shouting on top of their voices.
The Islamic State’s A’maq Agency released the video with the Arabic caption: “Fighters of Islamic State attacked Kuje prison in Abuja yesterday and succeeded in freeing dozens of prisoners.”
Activist Audu Bulama Bukarti provided a translation: “Islamic State fighters penetrated the prison of the Nigerian government yesterday, in Kuje city, on the outskirts of the capital, Abuja, after demolishing its walls, and successfully liberated dozens of prisoners.”
When he visited the prison on Wednesday morning, Bashir Magashi, Minister of Defence, said the attackers headed towards the direction where 64 Boko Haram suspects were kept.
Magashi said after the attack none of the suspects in custody could be located.
“The prison is accommodating about 994 inmates and over 600 escaped. Many people have been recaptured and brought back to the prison. Maybe by the close of the day, more will have been captured and returned.”
