This edition of the weekly update spotlights ethno-nationalist agitation in the Niger Delta with a focus on the resurgence of violent separatist agitation in Abia State. According to data (see map below), violence associated with separatist agitation caused over 150 fatalities in Abia State between January 2018 and September 2021. Recent incidents indicate a resurgence of violent agitation in the State, apparently triggered by the rearrest and detention of the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) by the federal government. Clashes between government security forces and separatist agitators as well as a weekly ‘sit-at-home’ order allegedly issued by supporters of IPOB has intensify insecurity in the State. In August, for example, supporters of IPOB reportedly attacked commercial busses over non-compliance with the ‘sit-at-home’ order, and inflicted injuries on several travelers along Ohafia-Umuahia road, Ohafia LGA. Recently, on October 21, 2021, at least three persons were reportedly killed during clashes between government security forces and armed supporters of IPOB in Arochukwu town, Arochukwu LGA.
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