More than 20 Killed in Violence between Local Groups in Niger State, Nigeria

More than 20 Killed in Violence between Local Groups in Niger State, Nigeria

Over 20 people have been killed in violent clashes between the Kambari and Fulani groups in Niger State, central Nigeria, amid calls to bolster security presence to contain tensions and prevent the spread of confrontations.

Jafar Mohammed, a Nigerian parliament deputy representing the Borgu federal constituency, confirmed that at least 20 people were killed in Friday’s violence, noting that initial reports indicate the killings were carried out by local militias.

Mohammed stated that the clashes involved multiple ethnic groups in the region and urged the authorities to deploy adequately equipped security forces to manage the situation and protect the residents from further attacks.

Niger State is part of a vast agricultural area in central and northwestern Nigeria, which has been suffering for years from the activities of armed gangs involved in cattle rustling, kidnappings, village and town raids, and the killing and robbing of inhabitants.

The security situation has worsened in recent years with the expansion of terrorist groups’ activities that have been waging an armed insurgency in northeastern Nigeria for nearly 17 years. Some of these groups have strengthened their presence in Niger State, with reports occasionally suggesting collaboration with the active armed gangs in the region.

Additionally, the recruitment of individuals from the Fulani by terrorist groups has intensified local tensions and has led to retaliatory operations by government forces and local militias, with Fulani civilians being among the prominent victims.

In May, a militia fighting alongside the army killed about 40 Fulani herders after accusing them of collaborating with the Ansaru group linked to al-Qaeda. Experts warn that continued violence and retaliation may drive more residents to join armed groups in search of protection.