Terrorists killed 835 people in October – report
At least 835 people were killed in 612 security incidents across Nigeria in October 2023, according to a report released by the security intelligence firm SARI Global. The report, which surveyed all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, identified armed bandits and insurgents as the primary perpetrators of violence during the month.
Incidents of violence increased by 14 percent compared to September 2023, when 535 incidents and 587 fatalities were reported. The latest data indicated that non-state armed groups initiated 221 of the incidents, resulting in 480 deaths. In contrast, government-affiliated forces were linked to 218 incidents and 197 fatalities.
Zamfara State recorded the highest number of security incidents, totaling 69 and resulting in 137 deaths. Borno State reported the highest number of fatalities, with 180 people killed across 51 incidents, primarily due to clashes between fighters from the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) and military forces near Lake Chad.
-1.jpeg "Akwa Ibom: Police arrest two masquerades over alleged unlawful roadblock, extortion")
Plateau State followed with 65 incidents and 62 deaths, while Katsina recorded 37 incidents. Other states among the top ten for security incidents included Kebbi with 27 cases, Lagos and Sokoto with 22 each, Niger with 19, Rivers with 18, and Benue with 17.
The report highlighted an attack on the Binnari community in Karim Lamido Local Government Area of Taraba State on October 23, which was one of the deadliest incidents of the month. Armed assailants attacked a weekly market, a mosque, and a local vigilante office, resulting in at least 62 deaths and 52 injuries.
Concerns were also raised about increasing attacks on major roads in Zamfara. Reports indicated that bandits had blocked the Gusau-Dansadau road, destroyed nine vehicles, and imposed a 50 million Naira levy on communities in the Dansadau District.
Additionally, SARI Global documented the killing of Sheikh Yahaya Ibrahim Masussuka in Dutsin-Ma, Katsina State, on October 26, an attack claimed by Ansaru. Other incidents included the murder of a female employee of a non-governmental organization in Sokoto, the looting of an NGO health facility in Ngala, Borno State, and a raid on a Maiduguri compound housing seven United Nations staff members.
The firm cautioned that the rising attacks on humanitarian workers and facilities are further constraining relief operations in affected regions. The report also noted 46 security incidents linked to political parties and activities, as tensions surrounding the 2027 general elections escalate.
Overall, SARI Global indicated that the October statistics reflect a deteriorating security situation in Nigeria, with armed groups increasingly responsible for the frequency and severity of attacks throughout the country.
