This week we present a snapshot of the security situation across Nigeria from December 31 to January 5, 2018 in collaboration with our security partners, PR24 Risk Management Consulting.
We focus on Violent Crimes, Civil Unrests, Robbery, Kidnapping, Insurgency, Militancy, Disasters, Rising Threat Levels, National Security & 2019 Elections, Rising Rape of Minor Cases, Increased Reports of Kidnap for Ritual, etc.
Southwest
(Medium-High Risk)
The region remains volatile following sundry acts of gun related violence as well as armed robbery activities occasionally involving policemen. This has exacerbated social tension and stoked the embers of civil and social unrest. Furthermore, a tragic pipeline explosion occurred in Abule Egba in Lagos State destroying 320 shops, 78 vehicles and 4 residential houses according to NEMA.
Highlight: A 43-year-old arabic teacher was filmed defiling a five-year-old girl enrolled in his school in Ifako Ijaiye area of Lagos State.
Advisory: The harmattan season poses some challenge, as a number of fire disasters amongst other tanker related conflagration has been recorded. Citizens are warned on the need for greater caution to avoid loss of lives and property. Also, residents in busy cities in the region like Lagos are advised to be extra vigilant of their surroundings and neighbourhoods. Parents are enjoined to keep a close watch on their children and wards to prevent them from falling prey to the rising incidents of rape and political violence.
South-South/East
(Medium-High Risk) Herdsmen attack, robbery, Road Traffic Accidents (RTAs) made the headlines in this region with different cases leading to multiple deaths. In another incidence, Anambra State was the theatre in the gruesome deaths of 50 persons burnt to death in a terrible fire incident.
Highlight: Father kills two sons with ‘Sniper’ poison over witchcraft allegation in Bayelsa.
Advisory: Paradoxically, this festive period saw a slight reduction in kidnappings in the region which, over time had risen to a very frightening level. However, locals and foreigners are advised to be vigilant at all times as the risk of a sustained, overt armed attack and the possibility of road kidnap remains high in these parts.
Also, travellers on the highway should drive with caution and be security conscious. Environmental awareness and access to accurate security information are of utmost importance. Ensure business travels are well planned, secured and properly managed.
North Central
(Medium-High Risk)
Acts of instability continue to dog the region through incidences of violent crimes, kidnappings, communal, herdsmens/farmers conflict, amongst other cult related clashes. RTAs and disaster. Other civil unrests such as communal clashes in Kwara State over land dispute were recorded as well as a fire incident at Wadata market in Benue State, which led to countless losses.
Highlight: Suspected armed Fulani herdsmen on New Year’s Eve stormed the rice farm belonging to Benue State Governor, Samuel Ortom, and set it ablaze. The rice farm is located in Gbajimba in the Guma Local Government Area of the state.
Advisory: The precarious security situation in both Plateau and Benue states remain unchanged. Residents and travellers are encouraged to maintain alertness as there is a high propensity for civil unrest and gunmen attacks in the region. Threat conditions in the region remain fluid. Kidnappings and armed robberies are beginning to be a trend in this region. Maximum caution is advised when commuting in the region.
Northwest
(Medium-High Risk)
A 15-year-old girl (name withheld), who was allegedly raped by her neighbour in Katsina State, has become pregnant as a result of the abuse she suffered in the hands of the suspected rapist- The Nigerian Police
Highlight: 15-year-old rape victim pregnant for abuser – The Nigerian Police
Advisory: Ethno-religious crises and other transnational crimes characterise the region, raising the prospects of increased military presence, as the Nigerian Army continues its pacification of the territory. Road travel is susceptible to these threats of kidnapping and armed robbery. A robust, context-based security programme is advised, and all road trips should be with caution. Travellers are also advised to take caution and avoid night trips as much as possible.
Northeast
(High-Extreme Risk)
The activities of Boko Haram remain largely unchecked in some parts of this region as the group continues to pillage and ravage communities as well as lay siege on military targets. In other related news, the Nigerian Army plans to relocate residents of Baga community in Borno State based on the need to minimise or destroy the various hideouts of the terrorists in Borno State.
Meanwhile, Air Commodore Ibikunle Daramola, the Air Force spokesperson has stated that the Nigerian Airforce has destroyed a Boko Haram enclave in Baga community.
Highlight: Air Force destroys terrorists’ meeting venue near Baga.
Advisory: We strongly advise against non-essential business travels to the region, especially communities that border Chad, Cameroon, and the Niger Republic.
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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.
