Armed attacks in Nigeria and a drone strike in Sudan have resulted in the deaths of at least 56 people, highlighting the escalating violence and humanitarian crises in both regions. In Nigeria, armed assailants targeted villages in Niger state, while in Sudan, a paramilitary group attacked displaced families fleeing conflict.

Nigerian Village Raids
On Saturday, armed assailants on motorbikes killed at least 32 people in raids on three villages in Niger state, Nigeria. The attacks occurred in Tunga-Makeri, Konkoso, and Pissa during the early hours, with local officials confirming that the violence was part of a broader surge attributed to "bandits" operating in the region. Witnesses reported that the attackers, riding over 200 motorbikes, opened fire indiscriminately, resulting in significant casualties and the destruction of property. The police spokesperson for Niger State, Wasiu Abiodun, confirmed that joint security teams have been deployed to assess the situation and rescue victims. The violence has intensified calls for the Nigerian government to restore security in a region plagued by kidnappings and assaults.

Sudan's Drone Attack
In a separate incident, a drone strike by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in central Sudan killed at least 24 people, including eight children, as they fled fighting in the Dubeiker area. The attack took place near Er Rahad in North Kordofan province, according to the Sudan Doctors Network. The victims were traveling in a vehicle when they were targeted. The RSF has been engaged in a protracted conflict with the Sudanese military since April 2023, leading to widespread chaos and displacement across the country. The Sudan Doctors Network condemned the attack as a violation of international humanitarian law, urging the international community to hold the RSF accountable for its actions.

International Reactions
The violence in both Nigeria and Sudan has drawn condemnation from various international figures and organizations. In Sudan, the UN humanitarian coordinator Denise Brown highlighted the detrimental impact of attacks on aid operations, stating that they undermine efforts to deliver essential assistance to those in need. British Minister for International Development and Africa, Jenny Chapman, called the attack on the World Food Programme convoy "disgraceful," emphasizing that humanitarian workers should never be targeted.

Wrap-up
The recent surge in violence in Nigeria and Sudan underscores the urgent need for effective intervention and support from the international community. As both regions grapple with escalating conflicts, the humanitarian implications continue to grow, threatening the lives and livelihoods of countless civilians.

Sources
theguardian.com
theguardian.com

@hoju-korean.com Editorial Team