Armed groups caused a bloodbath in Nigeria over the weekend. The army speaks of a “barbaric and brutal” attack.
According to authorities, more than 160 people have been killed in attacks on villagers in Nigeria. Armed groups attacked 20 different towns between Saturday and Monday, killing 113 people, the administration of Bokkos district in the central state of Plateau said. In neighboring Barkin Ladi, at least 50 more bodies were discovered in four villages, according to a member of the district assembly. There were more than 300 injuries.
The army initially reported an attack on a town on Sunday that left 16 people dead. Governor Caleb Mutfwang spoke of a “barbaric and brutal” attack. “We were sleeping when suddenly we heard loud gunshots,” said an eyewitness. “We were scared because we didn’t expect an attack. People hid, but the attackers captured many of us. Some were killed, some were injured.”
Deeply divided society
Authorities sent security forces to the region, also to prevent possible acts of revenge. Governor Caleb Mutfwang condemned a “barbaric and brutal” attack and promised to hold the perpetrators accountable.
The region lies between the north of Nigeria, which is predominantly inhabited by Muslims, and the south, which is predominantly inhabited by Christians. There are repeated violent clashes between cattle herders, who are mostly Muslim, and farmers, who are mostly Christian. Jihadists and criminal gangs also operate in the region. (APA/AFP)