Nigeria: Gunmen abduct eight people in Abuja's Kubwa area late Dec. 6

Event

Unidentified assailants abducted residents from the Kubwa area of Abuja late Dec. 6. Initial reports indicate the attackers stormed multiple homes near Arab Road, firing indiscriminately and kidnapping at least eight people. The assailants shot two people, killing one, as they fled the area. Officials did not immediately confirm a motive for the attack.

Authorities will likely maintain a heightened security presence in the surrounding areas, and operations to apprehend the attackers and rescue the victims are likely in the coming days. Localized transport disruptions are probable; security forces may establish roadblocks and checkpoints. Armed clashes between kidnappers and security forces cannot be ruled out.

Context

There is a high threat of kidnapping across all states in Nigeria. The risk is particularly acute in the northwest, where officials have failed to curtail attacks and kidnappings despite various security measures implemented, such as increased operations, curfews, and business restrictions. Most kidnappings in Nigeria are financially motivated and conducted by criminal groups (also called bandits) of varying levels of sophistication. Militant and/or extremist groups also conduct kidnappings that may be ideologically or financially motivated.

Advice

Consult local security partners on the viability of traveling in and around the impacted locations. Do not discuss plans and routes publicly. If operating in the area in the long term, vary routes and times of travel and ensure the use of secure transport. Remain courteous and cooperative if approached and questioned by security personnel. Maintain contact with diplomatic representations.