Nigeria: Ethnic clashes Plateau state June 23

Event

Suspected herders reportedly killed between 80 to 120 farmers in an attack carried out in Local Government Areas (LGAs) in the southern part of the Plateau state on Saturday, June 23. It remains unclear if the attack occurred in Barkin Ladi, Mangu, Bokkos, or Riyom LGAs. The assailants also razed at least 50 houses. Reports indicate that the attacks were likely in reprisal for cows being stolen by suspected youths from the Berom community in the last three weeks.

Furthermore, on Sunday, June 24, Berom youths erected barricades on the Jos-Abuja highway and attacked motorists who they believed to be Fulani or Muslims.

Due to the recent violence, a curfew has been implemented in the Riyom, Barikin Ladi, and Jos South areas of the state from 18:00 to 06:00 (local time). Additional security forces have also been deployed to the areas. Further related attacks are possible in Plateau state in the coming days and weeks.

Context

Ethnic and sectarian clashes are common in Nigeria. Central Nigeria and adjacent areas have become the scene of almost daily clashes between farmers and the largely nomadic herders in a battle for land and resources. The US Commission on International Religious Freedom recently reported that murder rates linked to ethnic violence in Nigeria are higher than those related to terrorism - also a major security concern in the country.

Advice

Individuals in Plateau state are advised to monitor the situation, remain vigilant, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.

The security environment in Nigeria is complex and is particularly concerning in the northeast and extreme south of the country due to the presence of armed groups, high crime rates, and the risk of kidnapping. Some Western governments consequently advise against travel to certain areas of the northeast (e.g. states of Adamawa, Bauchi, Borno, Yobe, Gombe, Jigawa, and Kano states) and the southern Niger Delta region (e.g. states of Delta, Bayelsa, Akwa Ibom, and Rivers). It is also advisable to avoid nonessential travel to Zamfara, Sokoto, Plateau, and Kaduna states. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to travel to these areas.