Violent clashes in Niger and Benue states leave 18 dead

At least 18 people have been killed in a series of violent clashes linked to a long-running land dispute in Niger State, with the most deadly incident occurring on the night of July 1. According to the Niger State Police Command, 15 victims were burned to death after assailants set a two-bedroom apartment ablaze in the Angwan-Baago community near Godoro village in Rafi Local Government Area. One other person was killed at a separate location, bringing the total death toll from the recent violence to 18.

Police spokesperson Wasiu Abiodun stated that the crisis began on June 29 when suspected armed men shot and killed a 25-year-old man, Ibrahim Musa, in Godoro village. In a suspected reprisal attack the following day, a group of local vigilantes, known as Yansakai, blocked a road and killed a 28-year-old man, Bashir Mazi. The police have linked both attacks to a protracted land dispute between communities in the area.

In response to the escalating violence, joint security operatives comprising police and military personnel have been deployed to the affected communities to restore peace. A reconciliation committee led by local government officials is also working with security...