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COMMON ANALYSIS
Last update: October 2021

Nasarawa state is comprised of 13 LGAs and its capital is Lafia. The state’s estimated population was 2 523 395 in 2016.

In 2018 it was noted that Nasarawa state was experiencing a surge in violence involving herder and farmer militias. Actors involved in violence include herders and farmers, militias of ethnic groups, vigilante groups and Nigerian armed forces. An offshoot of Boko Haram has also reported presence in the state.

Insecurity related to killings and kidnappings of citizens has spread across the state of Nasarawa, reportedly 'without being challenged by security operatives'. Toto and Nasarawa are the LGAs where the most kidnapping and armed robberies took place. Nasarawa was also among the states where fatalities due to farmer-herder clashes were recorded. In addition, ethno-communal clashes took place resulting in casualties and destruction of farmlands. A clash between a vigilante group and armed bandits was also reported.

During 2020, ACLED reported a total of 39 security incidents (15 battles, 23 cases of violence against civilians, 1 incident of riots) in Nasarawa state (average of 0.7 security incidents per week). Security incidents took place in 11 out of 13 local government areas, with the largest overall (8) number being recorded in the LGA of Lafia.

The abovementioned security incidents resulted in 66 deaths. Compared to the estimated population in the state, this represents approximately 3 fatalities per 100 000 inhabitants.

From 1 January to 30 April 2021, ACLED reported a total of 10 security incidents (2 battles, 7 cases of violence against civilians, 1 incident of riots) in Nasarawa state (average of 0.6 security incidents per week). These security incidents resulted in 21 deaths.

The total number of IDPs for Nasarawa by December 2020 was 20 059, an increase of 5 % compared to data collected in July 2020. No specific data were found for Nasarawa state with regard to the number of returnees.

The Keffi-Lafia road in Nasarawa is described as very dangerous for travellers due to the presence of armed robbers and kidnappers.

 

Looking at the indicators, it can be concluded that in the state of Nasarawa there is, in general, no real risk for a civilian to be personally affected within the meaning of Article 15(c) QD.
Main COI reference: Security situation 2021, 2.18