This week we present you a snapshot of the security situation across Nigeria from November 12 to 17, 2018 in collaboration with our security partners, PR24 Risk Management Consulting.
We focus on Violent Crimes, Civil Unrests, Robbery, Kidnapping, Insurgency, Militancy, Disasters, etc.
Southwest
(Medium-High Risk)
Both violent and opportunistic crimes headlined insecurity in the southwest as road traffic incidences such as traffic accidents and traffic robberies appeared prominent. In addition, cases of civil unrest and hoodlum clashes continue to compromise security in some parts of Lagos metropolis.
Highlight: Hoodlums engaged in a free-for-all in the Oyingbo area of Lagos State vandalizing vehicles and robbing traders on November 13. The clash was allegedly a territorial battle between warring gang members.
Advisory
The region is witnessing an increase in incidences of organised crime, cult wars and violent turf invasions, as political parties flag off their campaign for elective offices. Increased self-awareness, personal alertness, and environmental consciousness will be key to keeping safe. Business travel may be challenged by political rallies, which may lead to route congestions in some paths of the region, especially in Lagos. Business travellers should plan their journey with some possible disruption accommodated for. An increase in the risk of road traffic accidents and incidences of opportunistic crime should be planned for in a revised, season specific security programme.
South-South/East
(Medium-High Risk)+
In the south south/east, communal clashes, RTAs, kidnapping, and robbery incidences made headlines.
The region also appears to be witnessing a slight surge in violent crimes such as ritual killings, and other forms of murders, while cultism still thrives.
Highlight: No fewer than five persons were allegedly killed and several others missing in a communal clash between Ebijakara, Ebom and Usumutong communities in Abi Local Government Area (LGA) of Cross River State on November 15.
Advisory
Robberies and kidnappings appear to be increasing while communal clashes and militant agitations are growing. Road travel can be treacherous, owing to the spate of robberies and kidnapping along the Port Harcourt – Elele/Owerri road and Obioma/Omoleru road; with clergymen, university lecturers and politicians as targets. Thus, all forms of travels should be planned and secured. Sustained armed attacks may also become frequent as political thugs become engaged. Further, with the recent threats by some militant groups, it is imperative for multinational oil firms to take adequate precautions in protecting its workers.
North Central
(Medium-High Risk) Violent crimes, kidnapping, and robbery all undermine security in the north central, with RTAs also becoming a recurring incidence. According to the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC) report of the region, road crashes are commonplace along Mokwa – Jebba road, and the Bida – Kataeregi road.
Highlight: On November 15, gunmen attacked Mr Raheem Olawuyi – the candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) – in the November 17 by-election for the Irepodun/Isin/Oke-ero Federal Constituency in Kwara State. He was however unhurt.
Advisory
Few states are still considered volatile in the region, notably, Plateau, Kogi and Benue states. While there are probabilities of civil unrest and protests in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, the electioneering process and political campaigns are beginning to gather momentum. Security conditions in the region are fluid and can change abruptly. Monitor local media on breaking events and latest happenings. Although gunmen attacks and farmers/Fulani herdsmen clashes appear to have subsided, residents and travellers are encouraged to be alert. A robust, context-based security programme is advised.
Northwest
(Medium-High Risk)
Disaster, kidnapping and RTA’s led to loss incidences in the northwest. For instance, the official vehicle of the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt Gen Tukur Buratai, was involved in an auto crash in the Jere area of Kaduna State on November 12. While the COAS was not in the vehicle, the ADC was injured.
Also prominent in the region are violent and opportunistic crimes.
Highlight: Goods and properties worth millions of naira were burnt to ashes when a truck rammed into a live electric wire in Kebbi State on November 15. The two occupants of the vehicle, however, escaped death, while a few people sustained injuries.
Advisory
Residents and travellers in the Kaduna metropolis are advised to be vigilant as security conditions can change quickly. Monitor local media and stay abreast with breaking news and information. Across other states in the region, road travel is still threatened by RTAs, kidnapping, banditry, and other conditions suggesting a worsening case of transnational crimes.
A robust, context-based security programme is advised and all road trips should be with caution. Further, we strongly advise against night trips across the region.
Northeast
(High-Extreme Risk)
Terror sect Boko Haram continued its attack in the northeast. The sect reportedly killed 16 farmers in Kazaa and Daraa, Borno State, while it also kidnapped 10 IDPs. However, the Nigerian troops of the “Operation Lafiya Dole” arrested a 19-year-old suspected female suicide bomber in Gonikalachari, while on an alleged suicide mission.
Highlight: 16 farmers were feared killed, while dozens are still missing in the latest attack in Borno State by Boko Haram. Civilian militia found 15 bodies in fields around Kazaa and Daraa villages, on November 13.
Advisory
We strongly advise against non-essential business travels. Where necessary, a robust security programme is recommended, and all road trips should be with caution.
For further details contact PR 24:
www.pr24security.com
Skype: support_Pr24
Twitter: @PR24Nigeria
Email Address: info@pr24nigeria.com, support@pr24nigeria.com
Phone:+234 8094449044, +2348028774774
