24 Jan 2024 | 02:01 PM UTC
Nigeria: Violence possible in Mangu LGA, Plateau State, through late January /update 1
Further violence possible in Mangu LGA, Plateau State, Nigeria, through late January, despite 24-hour curfew imposed.
Further violence is possible in the coming days across the Mangu Local Government Area (LGA), Plateau State, amid an uptick in attacks. Unknown assailants stormed a local community in Kwahaslalek village overnight Jan. 23-24, leaving at least 30 residents dead and houses and other infrastructure damaged. The attack took place after officials imposed a 24-hour curfew on Mangu from Jan. 23, citing a deterioration of security conditions in the region. Movement restrictions are in effect, except for security forces and personnel conducting essential duties. Officials may extend, remove, or amend the curfew without notice.
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 your diplomatic representation.
Similar curfews have previously been imposed in Mangu in recent months, including in May and July 2023, after assailants killed at least dozens of people. At least 150 people died within three weeks in the region. The exact reason for the violence is not always provided. Disputes over access to resources, land rights issues, and related communal tensions are frequent in the middle belt and have likely prompted violence. Communal violence often fuels rounds of reprisal attacks between various communities, leading to heavy casualty tolls.
