Violence has escalated in the region due to clashes between nomadic herders and farmers competing for natural resources.
Armed groups have inflicted substantial casualties, with recent attacks in central Nigeria resulting in a higher toll than initially reported.
The conflict, marked by religious and ethnic tensions, has persisted for years.
The attacks, carried out by “bandits,” targeted over 20 communities, leaving a trail of destruction and hundreds of wounded individuals.
Local Red Cross estimates reported 104 deaths in 18 villages, and additional fatalities in the Barkin Ladi area.
The Plateau State governor condemned the violence, emphasizing proactive measures to address the ongoing attacks.
The region, situated between Nigeria’s predominantly Muslim north and mainly Christian south, remains a volatile dividing line.
Amnesty International criticized the government’s response, citing a failure to address frequent deadly attacks.
The root causes include competition for resources, exacerbated by population growth and climate pressures.
Beyond this, ongoing jihadist conflicts in northeastern Nigeria add to the complex security challenges the country faces.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has pledged efforts to attract investment and address persistent security issues.
