Niger Delta Weekly Conflict Update: March 24-30, 2024

This weekly update spotlights organized criminal violence in the Niger Delta with a focus on kidnap for ransom in Edo State. Kidnap for ransom has been a major cause of violence and insecurity in the State. According to data (see map above), more than 100 incidents and over 60 kidnap related fatalities were reported in the State between January 2021 and December 2023. Recent data shows a resurgence of kidnap for ransom including targeted abduction of travelers and political figures in the lead-up to the upcoming gubernatorial election in the State. In March 2024, for instance, the chairman of a major political party was reportedly abducted by gunmen near his residence in Benin City, the state capital. Separately, in March, a man was allegedly shot dead while attempting to escape from kidnappers along Ohen Road in Uromi community, Esan North-East LGA. Also, in March, a cleric was reportedly abducted by gunmen in Isihor community, Ovia North-East LGA. Recently, on March 20, 2024, gunmen suspected to be kidnappers reportedly attacked travelers and abducted 10 persons along Sobe-Ifon Road in Owan West LGA.