Nigeria: Armed attack kills at least 28 people in Guma Local Government Area, Benue State, late April 7

Event

Unidentified gunmen attacked a camp for internally displaced people in Guma Local Government Area (LGA), Benue State, late April 7. The assailants invaded the camp located in Mgban in Nyiev council and fired indiscriminately, killing at least 28 people. Local reports suggest up to 35 people were killed in the attack.

Heightened security is likely in the area in an attempt to prevent further attacks. Officials could impose movement restrictions, such as curfews, in the vicinity of Mgban. Locals may stage protests to denounce the perceived government’s inaction to stem the violence. Further violence cannot be ruled out.

Context

The exact reason for the violence is unclear. Communal violence primarily stems from land use and water rights disputes between agricultural-based communities and nomadic pastoral herders and smaller localized incidents like shrine desecration. The problem has persisted, defying attempts at resolution. Such violence is frequent in Benue State, with clashes resulting in numerous fatalities over recent years. While violence is unlikely to target foreign travelers, the incidental threat remains.

Advice

Consider deferring travel to areas of Benue State where communal violence is known to occur frequently. If such travel is unavoidable, exercise extreme caution. Heed instructions issued by local authorities. Maintain contact with diplomatic representations.