This week we present you a snapshot of the security situation across Nigeria from November 26 to December 1, 2018 in collaboration with our security partners, PR24 Risk Management Consulting.
The focus is on violent crimes, civil unrests, robbery, kidnapping, insurgency, militancy, disasters, etc.
(Medium-High Risk)
Reports of ritual killings, kidnap for ritual and other robberies remain the most prominent security challenges facing the southwestern part of the country. The upsurge in ritual killings; using human beings – whole and in parts, highlights a growing trend during festive periods. RTAs are also increasing as the festive season’s approaches.
Highlight
Two septuagenarians were gruesomely murdered, and vital organs removed in Okeegbe community of Ikare Akoko, Ondo State by suspected ritual killers, throwing residents into confusion and mourning.
Advisory
Episodes of ritual killings have also been on the rise. Increased self-awareness, alertness and environmental consciousness are therefore important. 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 and expose commuters to opportunistic crimes, especially in capital cities. Further, plan for an increase in the risk of RTAs and incidences of traffic robberies in a revised, season-specific security programme.
South-South/East
(Medium-High Risk)
Violent crimes and civil unrest topped the list of insecurity in this region, with the incidences of robberies and kidnappings also making headlines. The region is also experiencing a surge in communal clashes mostly relating to land and boundary issues, as recorded in Rivers, Delta, and Cross River states during the week under review.
Highlight
Two farmers from Usumutong, in Abi Local Government Area (LGA) of Cross River State, were allegedly abducted and another shot on November 26 as the boundary dispute between Usumutong and Ebom communities intensify.
Advisory
The region is experiencing an upsurge in kidnappings, while communal clashes and militant agitations are growing at an unprecedented rate. As political campaigns intensify, vigilance is essential especially in states that are susceptible to electoral violence, like Rivers State. 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 therefore of utmost importance. In addition, as the year runs to an end, road travels may become more treacherous, owing to the spate of attacks and RTAs. Thus, all forms of travel should be planned and secured.
(Medium-High Risk)
Organised crime such as kidnapping, violent cult clashes and civil unrest punctuate safety and security in the north central. This was headlined in Benue State by the killing of nine persons during a deadly cult clash and youth restiveness in the state.
Highlight
The Benue State Police Command on November 26 confirmed that nine persons were killed during a clash between suspected cult members and youths at Lessev in Ushongo LGA.
Advisory
Violent crimes and kidnapping undermine the security of the region. Plateau, Kogi and Benue states are still considered volatile. While there a probability 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, so it is important to keep up to date with breaking news and monitor developments. 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.
Northwest
(Medium-High Risk)
In the northwest, kidnapping remains a major challenge, and this was made prominent by the kidnap of the daughter of the chairman of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Dutsinma LGA of Katsina State by unknown gunmen. While in Sokoto State, the influx of a “strange group” of persons caused panic as residents raised alarm.
Highlight
The daughter of the Chairman of the PDP in Dutsinma LGA of Katsina State was on November 28 kidnapped by unknown gunmen. It was learnt that Zainab Hussaini was kidnapped at her father’s country home in Maitsani village.
Advisory
Across the region, road travel is still threatened by kidnapping, RTAs, and banditry, and other conditions suggesting a worsening case of transnational crimes. Residents and travellers are urged to be vigilant, monitor local media and stay abreast with breaking news and information. A robust, context-based security programme is also advised. In addition, all forms of travel should be well planned as travellers may encounter challenges, with the PDP presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar expected to flag off his presidential campaign in the region.
Northeast
(High-Extreme Risk) The two factions of Boko Haram- Islamic State of West African Province (ISWAP) and the Abubakar Shekau-led faction both appear to be having a field day in the northeast. While the ISWAP faction seems to be obsessed with military facilities and personnel, the Shekau one appears to be attacking villagers and farmers, carting away farm produce and livestock.
Highlight
Boko Haram killed four farmers near Maiduguri, in the latest bloodshed, while it also allegedly killed three soldiers in another attack on a military base during the week
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.
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PR24 Risk Management Consulting
CONTACT US:
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.