Nigeria: Protest held in Jos over recent attacks June 27 /update 1

Event

Various civil society groups and local residents held a demonstration in Jos, the capital of Plateau state, on Wednesday, June 27, to protest recent violence in the state. Demonstrators erected roadblocks along major highways in the town, causing significant traffic disruptions. The protesters are demanding that the authorities increase their efforts to prevent inter-ethnic attacks after significant fighting occurred on Saturday, June 23. Police officials initially reported that 86 people were killed in the June 23 clashes; however local leaders claim as many as 200 people died in the fighting. President Muhammadu Buhari visited Jos on Tuesday, June 26, to meet with members of the community and attempt to find a solution to end the conflict. Tensions remain high in Plateau state and additional protests are possible in the coming days.

Due to the recent violence, a nightly 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 (e.g. curfews).

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.