Niger Delta Weekly Conflict Update: January 21-27, 2024

This weekly update spotlights the rising threat of kidnapping in the Niger Delta. Over the years, kidnapping has evolved into a multidimensional organized criminal enterprise and a protracted security threat in the Niger Delta and in Nigeria generally. According to data (see map above), over 300 kidnap incidents and more than 250 related fatalities were reported in the Niger Delta between January 2022 and December 2023. Recent data shows a rise in kidnapping incidents in the region. In January 2024, for instance, several travelers were reportedly abducted by kidnappers in Ikom LGA, Cross River State. Separately, three travelers were allegedly abducted by gunmen near the Port Harcourt International Airport in Ikwerre LGA, Rivers State. Also, a traditional ruler was allegedly abducted from his residence by gunmen in Mbaitoli LGA, Imo State. In addition, gunmen reportedly abducted a 40-year-old woman and demanded a ransom of 10 million naira in Yenagoa LGA, Bayelsa state. Recently, an 8-year-old girl was allegedly abducted and hidden in a bag by a man who disguised as a scavenger in Akure, the Ondo state capital.