Nigeria in turmoil: Jihadist attacks claim 30 lives in Taraba
In northeastern Nigeria, brutal attacks have resulted in the deaths of at least 30 people. The Governor of Taraba State has confirmed that jihadists are likely responsible for these attacks.
What do you need to know?
- Where did the attacks occur? The attacks took place in the Karim Lamido district in northeastern Nigeria.
- How many people were killed? Residents of the villages of Munga and Magani report that at least 30 people were killed.
- Who is behind the attacks? It is suspected that jihadist groups carried out the attacks.
What are the details of the attacks?
The Governor of Taraba State, Agbu Kefas, stated that the attacks occurred in the Karim Lamido district. Residents of the villages of Munga and Magani report that at least 30 people were killed.
Why are the attacks escalating?
Lately, there has been an escalation of conflict in northeastern Nigeria. According to the governor, criminals—presumably members of jihadist gangs, including Boko Haram and the Islamic State's West Africa Province groups—are attacking villages, killing people and abducting residents. They demand a ransom for the release of those abducted.
Over the past decade, the toll in Nigeria has been severe: 36,000 people have been killed and over 2 million displaced. Falling victim to jihadists requires little: delays in paying the Muslim tax for "infidels" or accusations of collaborating with government forces can be enough.
What are the local authorities' reactions?
Governor Agbu Kefas, citing residents' testimonies, has confirmed that the situation in the region is tense. The authorities are trying to respond to the conflict though attacks continue to occur. Government forces are struggling to address the issue. According to Governor Kefas, the most challenging situation is in the northeastern part of the country.
