Nigeria: Unidentified assaillants attack oil workers in Imo State Aug. 16; at least seven killed

Event

Unidentified gunmen killed seven people, one police escort, and six employees in an attack on the convoy of an oil company in Imo State, Aug. 16. The incident occurred at Etekuru junction in Ohaji-Egbema Local Government Area (LGA). No group has claimed responsibility for the attack.

Security forces are likely to maintain a heightened security posture in the affected area in the short term. Further attacks remain possible.

Context

The oil and gas industry, based in the southern Niger Delta region, has been a flashpoint for violence for several decades, including kidnappings, inter-communal conflicts, armed insurgency, piracy and oil smuggling. Grievances against the oil and gas industry have driven militant activities in the region.

Numerous armed groups operated in the region, particularly in the 2000s, carrying out a series of attacks on oil infrastructure. After the failure of an amnesty program signed in 2009, attacks resumed in 2016, bringing Nigeria's oil production to its lowest level in two decades. However, the resumption of negotiations between the government and Niger Delta stakeholders has brought an end to these attacks, although the root causes of militancy are not expected to be resolved in the short to medium term, and there is still a risk of attacks and sabotage.

Advice

Heed the directives of local authorities in the area. Exercise a high degree of vigilance due to the threat of similar attacks. Do not discuss plans or travel routes publicly. If operating in the area, vary routes and times of travel and ensure the use of secure transport.