Nigeria: Herdsmen kill 18 in Bassa (Plateau state) October 3

Event

Attackers believed to be herdsmen reportedly killed 18 people in Bassa local government area (Plateau state) on the night of Wednesday, October 3 (local time). This incident comes one day after unidentified gunmen killed 14 people in Riyom local government area (Plateau state). Herdsmen may carry out similar attacks in Plateau and elsewhere in central Nigeria in the coming weeks. Retaliatory attacks are also likely.

Context

Ethnic and sectarian clashes are common in Nigeria. Central Nigeria and adjacent areas have become the scene of almost daily clashes between farmers and the largely nomadic herders in a battle for land and resources. The US Commission on International Religious Freedom recently reported that murder rates linked to ethnic violence in Nigeria are higher than those related to terrorism - also a major security concern in the country.

Advice

Individuals in Plateau state are advised to monitor developments to the situation, remain vigilant, and adhere to any instructions issued by the local authorities and home governments.

In general, the security environment in Nigeria is complex and is particularly challenging in the northeast and extreme south of the country due to the presence of armed groups, high crime rates, and the risk of kidnapping. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to travel to such areas.