Thousands displaced as death toll climbs in central Nigeria clash
According to officials on Thursday (May 18), more than 3,000 individuals have been displaced in central Nigeria due to ongoing clashes between herders and farmers, resulting in at least 85 fatalities. The violence erupted on Monday (May 15) in several villages of Plateau State, an area plagued by ethnic and religious tensions for years.
Witnesses and local sources reported that the crisis was still unfolding in the Mangu district of Plateau state, with residents fleeing the violence. This incident adds to the myriad security challenges awaiting President-elect Bola Tinubu, who is set to assume leadership of Africa’s most populous nation later this month.
While the trigger for this week’s attacks in Mangu remains unclear, it is not uncommon for retaliatory killings between herders and farmers to escalate into large-scale raids by heavily armed gangs.
AFP was informed by the chairman of the local government council, Daput Minister Daniel, that 85 bodies had been recovered, a toll confirmed by Joseph Gwankat, a community leader from the local Mwaghavul Development Association.
The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) stated that thousands of people had been displaced, and hundreds of houses had been destroyed as a result of the violence. NEMA’s regional coordinator, Eugene Nyelong, informed AFP that emergency relief was being mobilized to aid those in need. Over 720 houses were either partially or completely destroyed, and the exact number of injured individuals remains uncertain.
Law enforcement authorities reported the arrest of five individuals in connection with the violence. Police spokesman Alfred Alabo stated that heavy security presence had been deployed, leading to a restoration of calm in the general area.
However, Solomon Maren, a lawmaker representing Mangu and neighboring Bokkos, expressed ongoing tensions in the region, revealing that gunshots were still being heard, and people were fleeing for their lives. He described the perpetrators as numerous, armed, and not from the local communities.
A visit to the area by the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) on May 17 revealed a dire situation, with houses still burning and angry youths hindering further access. The director of search and rescue at SEMA, Juni Bala, described the urgent needs of the affected population, including shelter, food, bedding, and other essential items. Amnesty International’s Nigerian branch condemned the violence, emphasizing the need for increased protection of the people and the prosecution of those responsible for the attacks.
Nigeria has experienced a surge in violence in recent weeks, following a relatively calm period during the February presidential and March state elections. On Tuesday, gunmen attacked a U.S. convoy in Anambra State, resulting in the deaths of at least four individuals. Additionally, the country faces challenges such as a long-standing jihadist insurgency in the northeast, piracy in the Gulf of Guinea, and widespread kidnappings by armed criminals.
The escalation of violence in Nigeria is a grave concern for the nation and the international community. The ongoing clashes between herders and farmers, as well as other security challenges, highlight the urgent need for effective measures to protect the lives and well-being of Nigerian citizens.
President-elect Bola Tinubu, upon assuming office, will face the daunting task of addressing these security issues. The displaced individuals, the destroyed homes, and the loss of lives demand immediate attention and assistance. The government must swiftly provide emergency relief to those affected, ensuring that shelter, food, and medical aid reach the displaced and injured.
In addition to the immediate humanitarian response, a comprehensive strategy is required to address the underlying causes of the violence. Ethnic and religious tensions, as well as competition over land and resources, have fueled conflicts between herders and farmers in Nigeria for years. Efforts should be made to promote dialogue, reconciliation, and mutual understanding among different communities, fostering an atmosphere of peace and cooperation.
Law enforcement agencies must also intensify their efforts to bring the perpetrators of these attacks to justice. It is crucial to investigate and apprehend those responsible, sending a clear message that such acts of violence will not go unpunished. This requires strengthening the capacity and resources of the security forces, as well as improving intelligence gathering and sharing mechanisms.
The international community should also support Nigeria in its efforts to address these security challenges. Assistance from regional organizations, neighboring countries, and international partners can contribute to peacebuilding initiatives, capacity building, and promoting sustainable development in affected areas.
Beyond the immediate crisis, long-term solutions are needed to address the root causes of violence in Nigeria. This includes promoting inclusive governance, equitable access to resources, and economic opportunities for all citizens. Investing in education, infrastructure, and social programs can help create a more inclusive and prosperous society, reducing the likelihood of conflicts.
The recent surge in violence across Nigeria serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need to prioritize the security and well-being of its people. It is a complex challenge that requires a multifaceted approach, involving all stakeholders – the government, local communities, civil society, and international partners. With concerted efforts and a commitment to peace, stability, and justice, Nigeria can overcome these security challenges and build a brighter future for its people.
