What’s new? Recent massacres of villagers in Niger’s northern Tillabery regioncould mark a change in a conflict previously characterised mainly by fighting betweenjihadists and security forces. Authorities fear the growth of anti-jihadist vigilantegroups could fuel more attacks on civilians.Why does it matter? Tensions between jihadists and vigilantes, which often pitcommunities against one another, could lead to clashes that imperil civilians andpose new challenges for the state, as seen in neighbouring Mali and Burkina Faso.Such clashes could fuel local grievances and provide the Islamic State with additionalrecruits.

What should be done? Niamey should discourage vigilante group formation,which has spurred violence, and mediate communal disputes that fuel armed grouprecruitment. It should also explore adding locals to the security forces’ ranks, directingthem to focus on protecting villagers from banditry, and seek ceasefires with militants.