MONTHLY NIGERIA VIOLENT CONFLICT BULLETIN

Violent occurrences perpetrated by non-state actors continually threaten Nigeria’s stability. During the review period, banditry was the most overriding security challenge. The government and traditional authorities seem to be replaced by bandits as the de facto leadership in the affected regions. These young males, usually in their 30s, use violence hastily and assert political affiliation with pastoralists. The most dreaded bandit leaders collect taxes, arbitrate local conflicts, and are cheered on by praise singers. When not at odds, they work together in varying coalitions and engage in a never-ending arms race for more lethal weapons. As the May 29^th 2023 inauguration of a new administration draws nearer, scholars argue that the incoming administration will be confronted by internal and regional security challenges threatening the stability of the Nigerian state. In addition to this scenario, post-election tensions have grown as people wait for court judgements while communal clashes persist.

Click here to download report.