Armed groups kill 160 people in central Nigeria

The attacks, which began on December 24th, targeted communities in the Bokkos and Barkin Ladi areas of Plateau State, a region long plagued by religious and ethnic tensions.

The initial death toll reported by the Nigerian army on December 24th was just 16, but that number has since risen sharply as more details have emerged. Local officials now say that as many as 113 people were killed in the attacks, with hundreds more injured.

Armed groups known as "bandits" are being blamed for the attacks. Officials say the gangs launched coordinated attacks on at least 20 different communities, setting houses on fire and leaving a trail of death and destruction in their wake.

Hospitals in the region are struggling to cope with the influx of wounded victims. More than 300 people have been injured in the attacks, and medical supplies are reportedly running low.

Local officials and community leaders have condemned the attacks and called on the Nigerian government to take swift action to bring the perpetrators to justice. They have also urged the government to provide more security for the region to prevent further violence.

The attacks in Plateau State highlight the long-standing religious and ethnic tensions that have plagued the region for years. The area lies on the dividing line between Nigeria's mostly Muslim north and mainly Christian south, and has been the scene of numerous violent clashes in the past.

The international community has called for calm and urged all parties involved in the conflict to refrain from further violence. The United Nations has also called for an investigation into the attacks and for those responsible to be held accountable.

The attacks in Plateau State are a stark reminder of the ongoing security challenges facing Nigeria. The country is grappling with a number of armed conflicts in the northeast and the separatist movement in the southeast.

The attacks in Plateau State highlight the need for urgent action to address the root causes of these conflicts and to bring lasting peace to the region. (ILKHA)