Fact Check: In April 2023, at least 40 people were killed in the neighbouring state of Plateau, Nigeria.

Fact Check: "In April 2023, at least 40 people were killed in the neighbouring state of Plateau, Nigeria."

What We Know

The claim refers to a violent incident in Plateau State, Nigeria, where reports indicate that at least 40 people were killed during an attack by gunmen. According to Nigeria's President Bola Tinubu, this attack occurred in the Zike community and was attributed to Muslim herders targeting a Christian farming community. The president confirmed the death toll and stated that an investigation would be conducted into the incident (AP News, NPR). Local accounts suggest that the number of fatalities could be higher than reported, with estimates reaching up to 50 (AP News).

However, the timeline of the events is crucial. The reports in question refer to incidents occurring in April 2025, not April 2023. This distinction is significant as it indicates that the claim is referencing events that have not yet occurred as of the date specified in the claim.

Analysis

The evidence surrounding the incident is primarily sourced from reputable news agencies such as the Associated Press and NPR, which reported on the attack and provided details from local witnesses and officials. These sources are generally reliable, but the critical aspect here is the date of the incident. The reports clearly state that the attacks took place in April 2025, not April 2023.

Additionally, other reports from various news outlets corroborate the details of the attack, including the number of casualties and the context of ongoing violence in the region (Reuters, Vanguard). However, the misattribution of the date raises questions about the accuracy of the claim itself.

Conclusion

The claim that "in April 2023, at least 40 people were killed in the neighbouring state of Plateau, Nigeria" is False. The reported incident actually occurred in April 2025, and thus the claim misrepresents the timeline of events. While it is true that violence resulting in casualties has occurred in Plateau State, the specific details and dates provided in the claim do not align with verified reports.

Sources

1. Attack by gunmen leaves at least 40 people dead in Nigeria, the country ...
2. Attack leaves at least 40 people dead in Nigeria, the country's ... - NPR
3. Gunmen kill at least 52 people in Nigeria's Plateau state
4. 40 killed, 383 houses razed in Plateau attack as over 1,000 displaced
5. Many Killed in Renewed Attacks in Nigeria's Plateau State
6. Intercommunal violence kills dozens in central Nigeria
7. 40 killed, 383 houses destroyed in Plateau attack
8. At least 100 people killed by gunmen in north-central ...