1. Maiduguri is the city where the violence is occurring. This is in the state of Borno in the far northeastern portion of Nigeria. Yes, 4000 people have fled their homes in fear. Yes, hundreds of people have died, although most of them were militants.
2. The reason for this violence is religious in nature. The Islamic group involved is named Boko Haram and that means something to the effect of "Western education is sinful". Like many radical Islamic groups, Boko Haram fears the effect of Western ideals on their people and seeks to impose Islamic law across all of Nigeria. There's a pretty even split between Muslims and Christians in the north and south, respectively.
3. The leader of Boko Haram, Mohammed Yusef, was killed in police custody earlier today (it's already Friday in Nigeria). It is expected that with his death, violence should ultimately subside in the region.
4. Distances: Maiduguri is in the far northeastern corner of Nigeria. Abuja, the capital city (where I will live) is in the center of the country in the Federal Capital Territory. The state of Lagos (and the major city by the same name), is the other volatile region in the south, along the coast. I am some 430 miles away from Maiduguri and 330 miles away from Lagos. See map for spatial details.I'm not attempting to allay fears. I am aware that Nigeria is a volatile place to live in these uncertain times. I'm not trying to paint a false picture or reinforce my own sense of false security. I am aware that I am moving to a dangerous place. I am also acutely aware that the Lord is my defender and that my life does not exist outside of his care and keeping. I invite you to stand with me in the knowledge that God's will is infinitely better than my own, and that he will protect me no matter where I go.
