This week we present you a snapshot of the security situation across Nigeria from November 19 to 24, 2018 in collaboration with our security partners, PR24 Risk Management Consulting.
We focus on Violent Crimes, Civil Unrests, Robbery, Kidnapping, Insurgency, Militancy, Disasters, etc.
(Medium-High Risk)
Armed robbery attacks highlighted insecurity in the southwest of the country; as witnessed in Ekiti and Osun states, with both incidences targeted at financial institutions. In addition, violent and opportunistic crimes also made headlines; just as RTAs appeared prominent.
Highlight: Two policemen, a bank security guard and an aged man were killed when robbers attacked a bank in Ijero-Ekiti in Ijero Local Government Area (LGA) of Ekiti State on November 19. The robbers invaded the community through Aramoko Road in an ambulance with a casket filled with weapons and escaped through the same route.
Advisory
Armed robberies, cult wars, violent tuff invasions and other organised crime appear to be on the increase, just as political parties set-out for campaign ahead of the 2019 polls. The keys to staying safe therefore are increased self-awareness, personal alertness, and environmental consciousness. All forms of travels- both business and leisure should be well planned as travellers may encounter challenges due to political rallies and gatherings, which may lead to route congestion, especially in state capitals. In addition, 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.
(Medium-High Risk)
Communal clashes persist in some parts of the region as 12 persons were feared killed in a
communal fracas between four communities in Cross River State. The region also seemed to be witnessing a surge in kidnappings with notable cases recorded in Anambra, Delta and Enugu states.
Highlight: A communal clash between four communities in Odukpani LGA of Cross River State on November 18, allegedly claimed 12 lives with property valued at millions of naira destroyed. The communities involved include Mbiabo, Ediong, Obomitiat Edere and Idim Ndom Eki.
Advisory
The region is experiencing an upsurge in kidnappings, while communal clashes and militant agitations are growing. Road travels can be treacherous, owing to the spate of attacks along the Port Harcourt – Elele/Owerri road and Obioma/Omoleru road; with clergymen, university lecturers, businessmen and politicians as targets. Thus, all forms of travel should be planned and secured. Sustained armed attacks may also become frequent as political thugs become engaged with the elections closing in. Self-consciousness and access to accurate security information are of utmost importance.
North central
(Medium-High Risk)
Violent crimes, kidnappings, and robberies all punctuate safety in the north-central region of the country, with Plateau, Kogi and the FCT coming under the spotlight. Worthy of mention, however, is the kidnap of a monarch – the Long Dorok of Shendam LGA in Plateau State, David Dongbam by unknown gunmen.
Highlight: Troops of the Nigerian Army on November 20 killed 14 bandits operating along the Kaduna-Abuja Expressway, and Birnin Gwari area of Kaduna State; 31 persons – 18 children and 13 adults – were also rescued from the kidnappers by troops of the 1 Division, Kaduna State, during the operation.
Advisory
Violent crimes and kidnapping undermine security in the region. Plateau, Kogi and Benue states are still considered volatile states. While there are probabilities of civil unrest and protests in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, as 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. Although gunmen attacks and Farmers/Fulani clashes appear to have subsided, residents and travellers are encouraged to maintain alertness. A robust, context-based security programme is advised, and all road trips should be with caution.
(Medium-High Risk)
Violent crimes and kidnappings led loss incidences in the region. This was headlined by the violent clash between farmers and herdsmen in Gora village in Katsina State. In cheering news, troops of the Nigerian Army “Sharan Daji” reportedly killed 20 bandits and arrested 21 in Zamfara State, whilst also recovering hundreds of livestock.
Highlight: No fewer than 10 persons were reportedly killed in a clash between herdsmen and farmers in Gora Village, Safana LGA of Katsina State on November 20.
Advisory
Residents and travellers 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) Boko Haram (BH) insurgents continue their reign of terror in the northeast, attacking military bases. The group “Islamic State” claimed responsibility for five attacks that resulted in 118 casualties during the week. The attacks were carried out between November 16 and 22, including one at Metele village.
Highlight: BH jihadists killed 53 soldiers and farmers in three days of attacks in northeastern Nigeria. Of these, over 43 soldiers were reportedly killed in Metele, a remote village near Nigeria’s border with Niger Republic.
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:
Website: www.pr24security.com
Skype: support_Pr24
Twitter: @PR24Nigeria
Email Address: info@pr24nigeria.com, support@pr24nigeria.com
Phone Numbers: +234 8094449044, +2348028774774
Office: 6 Olatunde Ayoola Street, Anthony-Obanikoro,
Lagos, Nigeria.