Niger Delta Weekly Conflict Update for April 11-17, 2021

By Afeno Super | Conflict Tracker | 0 comment | 15 April, 2021 | 0

This edition of the weekly update highlights targeted violence against security forces in the Niger Delta with a focus on targeted attacks on security facilities and personnel in Akwa Ibom State. According to data (see map below), attacks on security forces caused over 50 fatalities in more than 25 reported incidents in Akwa Ibom between 2018 and 2020. Recent data indicates an upsurge in targeted violence against security forces in the State. In February 2021, for example, gunmen reportedly attacked a security checkpoint, burned a patrol vehicle and killed two security operatives in Ikpe Annang community, Essien Udim LGA. In March, over 100 hoodlums reportedly attacked a divisional police station and burned offices and vehicles in Nto-Nsek community, Essien Udim LGA. Separately, in March, gunmen reportedly attacked security opera-tives who were on a peacekeeping mission and killed three policemen in Essien Udim LGA. Recently, over 5,000 residents of about 10 commu-nities were reportedly displaced following the military bombardment of the hideouts of criminals in Essien Udim LGA on April 06, 2021.