Nigeria farmer‑herder clashes kill dozens in Niger and Benue states

In Niger State’s Rafi Local Government Area, an ethnic clash between Fulani herders and Kamuku farmers erupted on July 1, 2026 after a political cash donation was distributed. The violence left at least 48 people dead, homes and grain silos burned, and hundreds displaced. Police deployed joint security teams to Tegina and surrounding villages.

In Benue State, separate attacks on farming communities in the Sai and Saai villages of the Mbajir ward of Katsina‑Ala LGA have killed at least 25 people (15 in one incident and 10 in another) and injured many more. The assaults are suspected to be retaliatory, following the recent killing of Alhaji Ardo Risku, the Benue State chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association. Governor Hyacinth Alia condemned the attacks and ordered additional security forces to protect the communities and investigate the perpetrators.