01 Feb 2024 | 04:40 PM UTC
Nigeria: Suspected herders attack community in Agatu LGA, Benue State, Jan. 31
Suspected herders attack community in Agatu LGA, Benue State, Jan. 31. Further violence possible.
Unidentified assailants attacked the Ogboju community in the Agatu Local Government Area (LGA), Benue State, on the evening of Jan. 31. Conflicting casualty figures range from nine to 15 people killed, while an unspecified number of people have been injured and several others, including children, remain unaccounted for; the children are believed to be kidnapped. Local accounts attribute the attack to armed herders.
Heightened security is likely across the Agatu LGA to prevent further attacks in the short term. Officials could impose movement restrictions, such as curfews. Locals may also stage protests to denounce the perceived inaction to stem the violence. Further violence is possible in the coming weeks, including retaliatory attacks from aggrieved communities.
Consider deferring nonessential travel to the Agatu 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.
The exact reason for the violence is unclear. Communal clashes are frequent in the middle belt, particularly in Benue State, and primarily stem from land use and water rights disputes between agricultural-based communities and nomadic pastoral herders. Such violence often fuels rounds of reprisal attacks between various communities, leading to heavy casualty tolls. The problem has persisted, defying attempts at resolution.
