The recent massacres of villagers in Niger's Tillabery region could lead to a change in the conflict, from mainly fighting between jihadists and security forces to communal violence. Anti-jihadist vigilante groups are feared to fuel more attacks on civilians, leading to clashes that imperil civilians and pose new challenges for the state. Niamey should discourage vigilante group formation, mediate communal disputes, and explore adding locals to the security forces' ranks. Ceasefires with militants should also be sought. The situation in Tillabery highlights the need for authorities to learn from neighboring Mali and Burkina Faso, which have tolerated the emergence of communal militias and faced similar challenges.
