Nigeria: Deadly intercommunal clashes in Cross River State October 10-11

Event

Violent intercommunal clashes broke out in the Abi local government area of Cross River state on Wednesday, October 10, and reportedly continued on Thursday, October 11. According to reports, the fighting claimed the lives of at least ten people in the villages of Usumutong and Ediba. In addition, several houses and building were reportedly destroyed. A heightened security presence is anticipated in the area in the coming days. Nevertheless, further clashes remain possible in Cross River state in the near term.

Context

Intercommunal clashes are common in Nigeria. Local officials claim the violence stems from long-standing farming disputes between the Usumutong and Ediba communities.

Advice

Individuals in Cross River state are advised to remain vigilant and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities. The security environment in Nigeria is complex and is particularly concerning in the northeast and extreme south of the country due to the presence of armed groups, high crime rates, and the risk of kidnapping. Some Western governments consequently advise against travel to certain areas of the northeast (e.g. states of Adamawa, Bauchi, Borno, Yobe, Gombe, Jigawa, and Kano states) and the southern Niger Delta region (e.g. states of Delta, Bayelsa, Akwa Ibom, and Rivers). It is also advisable to avoid nonessential travel to Zamfara, Sokoto, Plateau, and Kaduna states. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to travel to these areas.