Niger Delta Weekly Conflict Update: February 25 - March 02, 2024

This weekly update spotlights homicidal violence in the Niger Delta with a focus on fatal domestic violence in Abia State. Domestic violence is a major security issue in Abia State. According to data (see map above), domestic violence caused over 30 fatalities in the State between January 2019 and December 2023. Recent incidents indicate the prevalence of domestic violence-related homicides in the State. In July 2023, for instance, a 24-year-old man allegedly killed his girlfriend during a quarrel in Ajata Ibeku community, Umuahia North LGA. In December 2023, a man reportedly died during a fight with his wife in Umuamoke Ngwaoma community, Ugwunagbo LGA. In February 2024, a 27-year-old man allegedly killed his father and removed one of his eyes for alleged money-making rituals in Amuzukwu community, Umuahia North LGA. More recently, on February 27, 2024, a 70-year-old man allegedly killed his 27-year-old son during a disagreement over food in Eziama Lokpaukwu community, Umunneochi LGA. The young man was allegedly killed because he took food from the family’s pot without his father’s permission.