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At Least 26 Killed in Three Attacks on Civilians and Police in Northern Nigeria Over Easter Weekend
Nigerian military and officials reported at least 26 deaths in three attacks in northern Nigeria over the Easter weekend. The incidents occurred in Benue, Borno, and Kaduna states, targeting communities, police, and a church service. The attacks are part of ongoing violence involving herder-farmer disputes and criminal groups.
Apr 6, 6:51 AM·1m read1 source
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ABUJA, Nigeria -- Nigerian military and local officials reported that at least 26 people were killed in three separate attacks in northern Nigeria over the Easter weekend.
The first attack took place on Saturday in the Mbalom community of Gwer West area in Benue State, north-central Nigeria. Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia confirmed the attack on Sunday but did not provide a casualty figure.
These incidents occur amid a cycle of violence in north-central Nigeria, where disputes over land and grazing rights between Fulani herders, who are mostly Muslim, and farming communities, who are largely Christian, often lead to clashes. Criminal gangs also operate in the region.
In a separate incident early Saturday, armed men attacked a police headquarters in Borno State in northeastern Nigeria. Borno State has faced ongoing security challenges from Islamist insurgent groups, including those linked to the Islamic State.
On Sunday, gunmen attacked a church service in Kaduna State. Kaduna State has experienced repeated attacks on churches and abductions.
The attacks affect local communities, including farmers preparing for the rainy season, and security forces. Future responses may involve increased military patrols and investigations into the perpetrators. Broader efforts to address herder-farmer conflicts continue through government initiatives, though violence persists.
