41 Fulani Herders Killed in Niger State Security Operation
Operation targeting suspected militant informants leaves dozens dead as survivors flee herding communities
- At least 41 Fulani herders killed in a joint operation involving Nigerian security forces and vigilantes
- Raid targeted settlements over alleged links to Ansaru militants, with arrests and shootings reported
- Survivors fled communities amid rising tensions, insecurity, and fear of further reprisal
At least 41 Fulani herders have reportedly been killed during a security operation involving Nigerian soldiers and vigilante groups in Niger State, according to local sources.
The raid targeted herding communities near Kabe in the Borgu area following allegations that some residents were acting as informants for Ansaru militants.
Witnesses said vigilantes from Nigeria’s Bussa district, alongside groups believed to have crossed in from neighbouring Benin, participated in the operation, which also resulted in the arrest of several young men.
Residents reported that security personnel carried out door-to-door searches, detaining suspects and shooting individuals who allegedly resisted during Thursday’s coordinated raids.
A local leader, Ahmad Ali, confirmed that 41 suspected informants were killed, describing the operation as a joint effort between security forces and vigilantes.
However, a humanitarian source estimated a slightly lower death toll of 38, attributing the violence to cross-border vigilante involvement from both Nigeria and Benin.
Nigeria’s military has not yet commented on the incident, while authorities in Benin have also not confirmed any role or knowledge of the operation.
The killings come amid ongoing insecurity in Niger State, where banditry, kidnappings, and extremist activities continue to heighten tensions.
Ansaru, an al-Qaeda-linked group, has reportedly expanded its presence in the region, often operating alongside criminal networks that carry out attacks on rural communities.
Observers warn that Fulani communities are increasingly being labelled as collaborators with militants, a trend that could deepen cycles of violence and retaliation.
Tensions had reportedly risen after the killing of two suspected informants, with threats from herders to disrupt farming activities during the rainy season.
In response, vigilante groups launched what locals described as a pre-emptive operation, fearing attacks on farmers.
Following the raid, many herders have fled the area with their livestock, leaving behind deserted settlements and growing uncertainty.
