29 Jan 2024 | 11:30 AM UTC
Nigeria: Authorities ease security curfew imposed in Mangu LGA, Plateau State, as of Jan. 29; curfew applies 16:00-08:00 /update 2
As of Jan. 29, officials partially ease curfew after uptick of violence in Mangu LGA, Plateau State, Nigeria. Curfew applies 16:00-08:00.
As of Jan. 29, officials have eased a 24-hour curfew imposed on the Mangu Local Government Area (LGA), Plateau State, on Jan. 23 amid an uptick in attacks; the curfew now applies 16:00-08:00. During curfew hours movement restrictions are in effect, except for security forces and personnel conducting essential duties. Officials may extend, remove, or amend the curfew without notice. Despite the relaxation, further violence is possible. Security forces reportedly inflicted a heavy casualty toll on gunmen during clashes on Jan. 27. Previously, unknown assailants stormed several villages overnight on Jan. 23-24, leaving at least 30 residents dead and houses and other infrastructure damaged.
Authorities will most certainly maintain an increased security presence to ensure adherence to the curfew and prevent further attacks. The curfew and movement restrictions will prompt localized transport and business disruptions. Locals opposed to the measure may stage protests. Episodes of violence cannot be ruled out.
Consider deferring nonessential travel to the Mangu LGA until the situation calms. Consult local security partners on the viability of traveling in and around the impacted locations. Abide by the curfew and remain courteous and cooperative if approached and questioned by security personnel. Avoid all demonstrations. Maintain contact with diplomatic representations.
Similar curfews have previously been imposed in Mangu in recent months, including in May and July 2023, after assailants killed dozens of people. At least 200 people died and thousands were displaced in the region late December 2023. The exact reason for the violence is not always provided. Disputes over access to resources, land rights issues, and related communal tensions are a persistent feature of the area and have prompted violence in the past. Communal violence often fuels rounds of reprisal attacks between various communities, leading to heavy casualty tolls.
