Kaduna State, Nigeria – Civilians in Nigeria face a multitude of security threats, including attacks by armed bandit groups, ongoing violence by Boko Haram, and the Islamic State in West Africa. These threats have resulted in a humanitarian emergency, with millions of people, predominantly women and children, in urgent need of assistance, according to the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA).
The violence in Nigeria stems from conflicts between herding and farming communities over scarce resources, particularly in central and north-west Nigeria. These tensions have led to the formation of armed groups and gangs, such as armed bandits, who have committed widespread atrocities, including murder, rape, and kidnapping. Additionally, extremist groups like Boko Haram and ISWA have targeted civilian and military populations, resulting in mass atrocities in northern Nigeria.
Counterterrorism operations by Nigerian security forces have been marred by reports of human rights violations, including extrajudicial killings, rape, and torture. The military has even been accused of running a secret and illegal abortion program in certain states since 2013. In an effort to combat armed bandits, the government has intensified military operations, leading to indiscriminate airstrikes and civilian casualties.
The violence has escalated in recent years, with near-daily attacks by armed groups resulting in kidnappings and violence against civilians. Communities in states like Zamfara, Plateau, and Kaduna have been targeted in coordinated attacks, leading to dozens of deaths and hundreds of injuries. The Nigerian military’s airstrikes have also caused civilian casualties, raising concerns about the military’s identification of legitimate targets and accountability for civilian harm.
Nigeria’s armed forces are spread thin as they combat Boko Haram, ISWA, and bandit groups across the country. The increase in violence between herders and farmers can be attributed to a myriad of factors, including population growth, desertification, and ethnic tensions. Addressing the root causes of conflict, such as poor governance, corruption, and poverty, is essential in mitigating further violence.
Efforts to protect vulnerable populations must be coupled with social initiatives and political reforms to address the underlying issues driving the violence. Local peace commissions have shown promise in mediating tensions and building early warning systems in high-risk regions. The government must prioritize human rights training for its security forces and ensure accountability for violations.
The government of Nigeria faces the urgent task of investigating attacks against civilians and holding perpetrators accountable for atrocities. The International Criminal Court may need to step in to investigate alleged crimes committed by armed extremist groups and government security forces. These steps are crucial in establishing peace and stability in Nigeria amid the ongoing security challenges.