Nigerian President Bola Tinubu has ordered an investigation following an attack in Plateau state that resulted in the deaths of numerous people. According to the Red Cross, up to 52 individuals were killed in the latest incident of violence in the region, known for intercommunal conflict and disputes over land. Tinubu stated that over 40 people had died, while Amnesty International reported a total of 54 fatalities.

The attack was carried out by Muslim gunmen against a Christian farming community in the central northern state. Amnesty International strongly condemned the killings and criticized the security measures in place, claiming they were ineffective. The organization called for a genuine commitment to protect the population and ensure justice for the victims.

The violence in Plateau state is rooted in long-standing misunderstandings between different ethnic and religious groups, particularly between Muslim Fulani herders and Christian farmers. Land disputes and the impacts of climate change have further exacerbated tensions, resulting in frequent deadly conflicts. Amnesty International reported that over 1,300 people were killed in Plateau state between December 2023 and February 2024.

Source: https://www.dw.com/en/nigeria-amnesty-condemns-government-after-deadly-attack/a-72245453?maca=en-rss-en-all-1573-rdf