This weekly update spotlights political violence in the Niger Delta with a focus on rising political tensions in Rivers State. Politics in the Niger Delta is a high state affair, often characterized by violence. According to data (see map above), more than 100 incidents of political violence were reported in Rivers State between January 2020 and March 2024. Recent incidents indicate rising political tensions over power tussle between political actors in the State. In June 2024, for instance, many incidents of violence, including clashes between supporters of two factions of a political party, were reported at different locations in Port Harcourt and Ikwerre LGAs. Recently, on June 18, 2024, two persons including a police officer and a member of a vigilante group were reportedly killed during clashes between supporters of different political groups over the tenure of the chairpersons of local government council in Eberi-Omuma community, Omuma LGA. Also, on June 18, 2024, a youth leader was reportedly ambushed and killed by suspected members of a cult gang who double as political thugs along Ula-Upata Road in Ahoada East LGA.

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