More people have been killed by armed groups in Nigeria in the first six months of this year than in the whole of 2024. That’s according to the National Human Rights Commission, which reports over 2 200 deaths resulting from insurgent attacks, banditry, and communal violence.

With the military stretched thin, the killings continue to escalate and pressure on the government is mounting.

To help unpack what’s driving this crisis, and what can be done, Asanda Beda spoke to Chidi Omeje, a respected Nigerian security analyst who has been closely following these developments.