The Re-Emergence of Violent Extremism and Criminal Networks in Niger Delta Nigeria

• In Event: Organized Crime, Extremist Violence, and Insurgency

Abstract

This study examines the outbreak of violent attacks by different militant groups in the Niger Delta region of Nigeria, despite the divergent efforts and programs made towards ensuring lasting peace in the volatile area, such as the presidential amnesty program in 2009. Recently, there have been traces of criminal activities including kidnapping, attacks on oil facilities, illegal oil refining, illicit arms trade and violent attacks on oil community residents. Some of these criminal behaviors are traced to the grievances of unemployed youths from the region because of environmental degradation and structural inequality. The study uses data gathered from different oil-producing communities in the Niger Delta region. Findings suggest that corruption among government officials, compromised policing system and proliferation of arms are the crucial indicators of the increased violent attacks in the region. The policy implications of these findings include restructuring of the security system in the region and providing a structural development plan that integrates the interest of oil community residents.

Author

• Godwin Egbe, University of Mississippi