This weekly update highlights political violence in the Niger Delta with a focus on rising political tensions in Edo State. According to data (see map below), over 80 incidents of political violence were reported in Edo State between January 2016 and July 2020, including over 30 incidents of violence during the 2016 off-cycle gubernatorial election in the State. Ahead of the upcoming gubernatorial election scheduled for September 19, 2020, the political situation in the State is already charged with several reported incidents of violence and inciting utterances by key actors. In July 2020, for instance, several persons were reportedly injured and many vehicles destroyed during a clash between supporters of two major political parties at the palace of a prominent traditional ruler in Benin City, the state capital. In August, there were reported incidents of shootings by political thugs at campaign rallies in Jattu and Apana communities, Etsako West LGA. Also, in August, about 15 persons were reportedly shot during clashes between supporters of two major political parties in Igarra, Ekpe and Ososo communities, Akoko-Edo LGA.
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https://pindfoundation.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Niger-Delta-Weekly-Update-August-30-September-05-2020.pdf
