Armed violence in Nigeria and a deadly drone attack in Sudan have intensified the humanitarian crises in both regions. In Nigeria, armed assailants killed at least 30 people during raids on villages in Niger state, while in Sudan, a drone strike by a paramilitary group resulted in the deaths of 24 individuals, including children, who were fleeing conflict.

Nigerian Village Attacks
On Saturday, armed attackers on motorbikes raided three villages in Niger state, Nigeria, killing at least 30 people and igniting widespread fear among residents. The violence occurred in the Borgu local government area, near the Benin Republic border. Local police confirmed that the assailants targeted Tunga-Makeri and Konkoso villages, burning homes and shops in the process. Wasiu Abiodun, a police spokesperson, reported that six people were killed in Tunga-Makeri alone, with several others abducted. Jeremiah Timothy, a resident of Konkoso, described the chaos as the attackers opened fire indiscriminately around 6 AM local time. Witnesses indicated that over 200 armed individuals participated in the assault, which has been attributed to ongoing insecurity in northern Nigeria.

Sudan's Drone Attack
In Sudan, a drone strike by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) struck a vehicle carrying displaced families in North Kordofan province, killing at least 24 people, including eight children. The attack occurred near Er Rahad as the families were fleeing violence in the Dubeiker area. The Sudan Doctors Network reported that many survivors were injured and needed medical assistance in a region already suffering from severe shortages of medical supplies. The RSF has been engaged in a protracted conflict with the Sudanese military since April 2023, leading to widespread displacement and loss of life.

International Response
Both incidents have drawn condemnation from various international bodies and human rights groups. The Sudan Doctors Network has called for immediate action from the international community to protect civilians and hold the RSF accountable for its actions. Denise Brown, the UN humanitarian coordinator in Sudan, condemned the drone strike on a World Food Programme convoy, which resulted in the destruction of aid intended for displaced individuals. British Minister Jenny Chapman also denounced the targeting of humanitarian efforts, emphasizing the dire situation faced by civilians.

Wrap-up
The recent violence in Nigeria and Sudan underscores the escalating humanitarian crises in both regions. As armed groups continue to wreak havoc, the international community faces increasing pressure to intervene and provide assistance to those affected by the violence. The situation remains fluid, with many lives at stake as conflicts persist.

Sources
theguardian.com

@hoju-korean.com Editorial Team