Niger Delta Weekly Conflict Update: May 05-11, 2024

This weekly update spotlights organized criminality in the Niger Delta with a focus on rising criminal violence and targeted killings in Edo State. Criminality is a major driver of violence and insecurity in the State. According to data (see map above), criminal violence caused over 250 fatalities in Edo State between January 2020 and March 2024. Recent incidents indicate a rising wave of criminal violence in the State. In March 2024, for instance, gunmen allegedly killed a man at a church along Murtala Muhammed Way in Benin City, the State capital. Separately, in March, gunmen reportedly killed a man at his farm in Ubune-Ivbiaro community, Owan East LGA. In April, gunmen reportedly killed three men at two different locations in Obagie community, Ikpoba Okha LGA. One of the victims was killed at a sport betting shop while the others were killed in their vehicle. Also, in April, a 19-year-old girl was allegedly abducted and killed by kidnappers in Iru Egbede community, Orhionmwon LGA. Recently, on May 06, 2024, gunmen allegedly killed three employees of an oil palm company in Okomu community, Ovia South-West LGA.