Nigeria: At least nine people killed in Kaduna in bandit attacks Jan. 17

Event

On Jan. 17, authorities reported at least five people were killed by unidentified bandits in Kaduna. The incidents occurred in the Chikun and Igabi Local Government Areas. Attacks targeting security forces were also reported, and at least four officials were killed in Birnin Gwari. Reports of a mass abduction remain unverified. The exact dates of the attacks remain unclear.

Context

Armed banditry has emerged as a primary security threat due in part to the fragile economic situation in central and northern Nigeria. Opportunistic criminals and Fulani tribal groups remain active in forested areas and reserves in Niger, Plateau, Kaduna, Katsina, Kano, Sokoto, Kebbi, and Zamfara states. Security personnel have accused ethnic-Fulani farmers of perpetrating the violence against predominantly Hausa communities. While locals are more likely to be affected, the threat to foreign nationals remains.