02 Jan 2024 | 10:46 AM UTC
Nigeria: Increased security, protests likely in Plateau State through early January following mass killing of civilians /update 1
Heightened security, protests likely in Plateau State, Nigeria, through early January following attack on local community.
Further protests and increased security are likely in Nigeria's Plateau State, especially in Jos, amid increased tensions, following the mass murder of hundreds of civilians in a province-wide attack on Dec. 23-26, 2024. The latest call came from the civil society group 'Plateau Women Cry', which organized a peaceful demonstration in Jos, Jan. 2; attendees were asked to wear black clothing.
Heightened security and further protests are likely in the coming days; unrest could exacerbate religious tensions in the city and wider state. Demonstrators may march along or block roadways, prompting localized transport disruptions. Clashes between police and activists are possible; clashes involving rival religious and communal groups may also occur. Further violence and retaliatory attacks between communal groups are also possible.
Consider deferring travel to areas of Plateau State where incidents of intercommunal violence and bandit attacks are 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 your diplomatic representation. Avoid all demonstrations and any areas where security personnel are deploying. Do not drive through protest roadblocks. Leave the area at the first sign of a security disturbance.
On Dec. 23. suspected militants launched a coordinated attack on villages in at least 20 communities, including in Barkin-Ladi, Bokkos, and Mangu local government areas, with violence continuing through Dec. 26. The attack could be religiously motivated since the victims were Christian populations, and the attack occurred over a significant religious holiday. Reports suggest around 200 civilians were killed, and thousands more have been displaced.
Intercommunal violence along religious lines in Plateau State usually stems from disputes over land use and water rights between agricultural-based communities and nomadic pastoral herders. Bandit militia groups frequently attack communities in central and northwestern Nigeria to steal goods and livestock and kidnap locals for ransom. The problem has persisted for many years, defying all attempts at resolution.
Such violence is a frequent occurrence in Plateau State, with clashes having resulted in numerous fatalities over recent years.
