Nigeria: Suspected herders attack Umogidi locality, Otukpo LGA, Benue State, April 5

Event

Suspected herders attacked the Umogidi locality, Otukpo Local Government Area (LGA), Benue State, late afternoon of April 5. The locality suffered a similar attack in which three individuals died earlier this week. The incident reportedly occurred during their burial ceremony; assailants invaded the area and fired indiscriminately. Casualty figures are unclear; authorities confirmed that eight people died, while local reports suggest up to 47 residents were killed.

Heightened security is likely in the area to prevent further attacks. Officials could impose movement restrictions, such as curfews, in the vicinity of Umogidi. Locals may stage protests to denounce the perceived government’s inaction to stem the violence. Further such 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.; up to 50 people died during a similar attack in the Kwande LGA in early March. 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.