This weekly update highlights organized criminality in the Niger Delta with a focus on criminal violence in Delta State. Organized criminal violence including kidnapping for ransom, clashes between cult gangs, and targeted killing is a major cause of insecurity in the State. According to data (see map above), criminal violence caused over 150 fatalities in Delta State between January 2021 and December 2022. Recent data shows a rise in criminal violence in the State.

• In January 2023, for example, armed kidnappers reportedly killed a man and abducted another in Mosogar community, Ethiope West LGA.
• Separately, gunmen reportedly killed four residents including a politician, two businessmen and a sales girl in Sapele Town, Sapele LGA.
• Also, in January, gunmen allegedly killed two members of a local vigilante in Amukpe community, Sapele LGA. Separately, in January, cultists reportedly killed two young men in Egbokodo-Itsekiri and Ubeji communities, in Warri South LGA.
• Recently, on February 09, 2023, gunmen allegedly attacked troops of the Nigerian Army and killed four soldiers in Kwale community, Ndokwa West LGA.

Prognosis: The current wave of criminal violence has the potential to intensify in ways that could adversely impact the dynamics of conflict and insecurity in the State. Stakeholders should work with the security agencies to devise strategies to mitigate the situation. Stakeholders should also collaborate with other relevant governments’ agencies to develop lasting developmental and institutional strategies to address the underlying causes. Interestingly, several organizations are collaborating to mitigate the drivers of violence in the region.

Follow this link to download the full report: Niger Delta Conflict Report February 5-11,2023