Niger: Death toll in Rafi communal crisis rises to 18 

The death toll from the communal crisis in Rafi Local Government Area of Niger State has risen from 10 to 18 following fresh attacks linked to the lingering land dispute allegedly between Fulani and Kamuku communities in the area.

The State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Wasiu Abiodun, said “the crisis is linked to a longstanding dispute between the two tribes”.

According to him, a report received on June 30 indicated that at about 11:30 p.m. on June 29, armed men invaded Godoro village in Katako District and shot dead 25-year-old Ibrahim Musa.

He explained that the killing sparked a reprisal attack by members of a local vigilante group, popularly known as Yansakai, who blocked a road and killed 28-year-old Bashir Mazi.

Abiodun further disclosed that another report received at about 10 p.m. on July 1 revealed that 15 people were burnt to death inside a two-bedroom apartment at Angwan-Baago, via Godoro village, while another person was killed at a separate location, bringing the total number of deaths in the crisis to 18.

He said the attacks are believed to be connected to the protracted land dispute between the affected communities.

The police spokesman added that a reconciliation committee headed by officials of the Rafi Local Government Council is working with community leaders and security agencies to restore peace.

He said joint police and military patrols have been intensified across the affected communities to prevent further attacks, maintain law and order, and ensure the protection of lives and property, while investigations into the incidents are ongoing.