Nigeria: Increased security likely in Benue State at least through mid-April after renewed violence /update 1

Event

Increased security is likely across Benue State through mid-April following renewed violence between pastoralists and farmers in early April. At least 74 locals were killed in two separate armed attacks on April 7 and 8, including 28 victims from the camp for internally displaced people (IDPs) in the Guma Local Government Area (LGA). The same week, 46 suspected herdsmen were reportedly killed in a remote village in the Otukpo area April 5. The perpetrators, as well as the motive of the attack, are unclear, but are likely related to a large conflict between competing communities of farmers and pastoralists.

Further violence is likely in the coming weeks, including retaliatory attacks from aggrieved communities. Officials could impose movement restrictions, such as curfews, in impacted areas. Locals may stage protests to denounce the perceived government’s inaction to stem the violence.

Context

The exact reason for the violence is unclear. Communal violence primarily stems from land use and water rights disputes between agricultural-based communities, nomadic pastoral herders, and smaller localized incidents such as shrine desecrations. 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 personnel, 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. Refrain from traveling at night. Heed instructions issued by local authorities. Maintain contact with diplomatic representations.