Christmas 2024: Huge fear grips northern Nigeria, see why

• Christians in the northern part of Nigeria plan to celebrate Christmas amid fear of a repeat of violence that claimed lives recently in Niger and Zamfara states
• Legit.ng recalls that on the eve of Christmas in 2023, armed groups killed at least 160 people in Plateau state in a series of attacks on villages
• Many expect that security measures at public places across Nigeria will be significantly tightened this December, still, fear spreads among northern churches over fresh bomb attacks

Legit.ng journalist Ridwan Adeola Yusuf has over 9 years of experience covering public affairs and security.

FCT, Abuja - 72 hours to Christmas 2024, many Christians living in northern Nigeria have expressed fear of possible terror attacks on churches.

As reported by The Punch on Sunday, December 22, the situation had dampened the festive spirit of some northerners, forcing many families to reconsider their plans for the season.

Many residents have become anxious about how they would celebrate Christmas in 2024 amid unresolved security issues. Photo credits: Anadolu, Guvendemir
Source: Getty Images

Christians in Nigeria fearful of Christmas attacks

The newspaper said many residents in the north lamented the negative impact of the alleged high level of insecurity on their ability to celebrate the holidays, particularly Christmas.

On Thursday, December 19, one person was confirmed killed while four others were injured in a bomb explosion which took place in Bassa community of Shiroro local government area (LGA) of Niger state.

Earlier, also in December, some Zamfara residents died following the detonation of an improvised explosive device (IED).

The incident occurred in Maru local government area (LGA) of Zamfara state. The state police command stated that the attack was carried out by members of the Lakurawa terrorist group.

Legit.ng reports that a jihadist conflict has raged in northern Nigeria since 2009, killing tens of thousands of people and displacing around many, as terrorist groups continue their mindless attacks.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, a political heavyweight, elected in February 2023 in a highly contested ballot, has promised to attract more investment to Africa’s largest economy and most populous country to tackle its persistent security challenges.

Bayelsa approves Christmas break

Earlier, Legit.ng reported that Bayelsa governor, Duoye Diri, approved a Christmas break for all civil servants in the state.

The government said the break is to commence on Tuesday, December 24th, and end on Monday, December 30th, 2024. The governor expressed his appreciation to all residents for their continued support and wished them a joyous Christmas and a prosperous New Year.

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Source: Legit.ng