Nigeria: Attacks leave at least 52 killed in Plateau and Niger states Jan. 11-12

Event

Unknown assailants carried out separate attacks against communities of Plateau and Niger states Jan. 11-12. In Plateau, attackers killed at least 18 locals and injured six others in a village located in the Bassa Local Government Area (LGA), destroying houses, vehicles, and crops. In Niger, the assault targeted the Nakuna and Wurukuchi communities, reportedly in the Shiroro LGA, killing up to 34 residents. The exact location of the incident remains unclear; further details are unavailable. Authorities confirmed the incidents and may provide further details in the coming hours and days.

Increased security and related localized disruptions are likely in the vicinity of the affected communities over the coming days. Authorities may enact strict security measures. In the past, officials in Niger and Plateau have imposed curfews and business restrictions following communal violence or criminal attacks. Further such as attacks cannot be ruled out.

Context

The attack in Niger may have been carried out as reprisal after security operatives reportedly killed scores of so-called bandits in the region in recent days.

Armed banditry is one of the primary threats in central and northern Nigeria, including in Plateau State. Violence is often driven by competition for access to resources such as grazing areas and water. Further complicating the situation, clashes often have a communal component to them, which in turn fuels rounds of reprisal attacks between various communities.

Advice

Heed all official directives. Exercise a high degree of vigilance due to the threat of violence. Do not discuss plans and routes publicly. If operating in the area in the long term, vary routes and times of travel and ensure the use of secure transport. Maintain contact with diplomatic representations.