Nigeria: Fulani herders killed over suspected links to jihadists
Self-defense groups in north-central Nigeria have killed dozens, possibly hundreds, of Fulani herders in recent weeks, accusing them of complicity with jihadists active in the region. This information was reported by several sources to AFP. Nigeria has a history of conflict between nomadic herders, often Fulani, and sedentary farmers over land control, exacerbated by population growth and climate change. Criminal gangs, known as "bandits," and jihadist groups in West Africa have frequently recruited Fulani individuals, leading to retaliatory attacks against the Fulani community. Recent incidents include Kambari and Bargawa ethnic militias, primarily farmers, raiding Fulani herding camps in Agwara district, Niger State. These militias killed herders, stole livestock, and destroyed homes. The raids followed a wave of kidnappings attributed to the Lakurawa jihadist group, with militias accusing herders of assisting them. An anonymous UN source tracking the situation told AFP that approximately 700 Fulani herders may have been killed in these attacks, suggesting the killings aim to drive Fulani herders from the region. This source also expressed concern about potential retaliation from the herders, who have fled to Yauri district in Kebbi State. AFP could not independently verify these figures, and the police did not respond to requests for comment. A humanitarian worker confirmed an increase in militia attacks on Fulani camps over the past two weeks, describing militias entering
