Plateau State violence risks escalation amid social media misinformation

Violence in Plateau State, Nigeria, is escalating due to a cycle of retaliatory attacks between armed Fulani groups and local farming communities, such as the Berom and Mwaghavul. Security analysts from SB Morgen Intelligence (SBMI) have warned that the conflict could enter a high-intensity phase, particularly in the Mangu and Barkin Ladi Local Government Areas.

Recent incidents include a deadly attack on the Bin-Per community in Mangu, where at least 23 people were killed, reportedly in reprisal for an earlier attack on herders in Naben village. In Barkin Ladi, a February attack on Dorowa Babuje village left seven people dead and triggered immediate community roadblocks and further unrest.

Investigations indicate that social media has played a critical role in amplifying the violence. Unverified claims, inflammatory narratives, and graphic content shared on platforms like Facebook have influenced public perception and accelerated the spread of misinformation. During the holy month of Ramadan, digital platforms were used to circulate claims of impending reprisals, further destabilizing the region.