Conflict and Insecurity in the Niger Delta Region of Nigeria

Abstract

This study examined the effectiveness of government security responses to conflicts and their implications for human rights in Niger Delta region of Nigeria. Focusing on Akuku-Toru local government area in Rivers State, Isoko-South local government area in Delta State and Eket local government area in Akwa-Ibom State, the study assesses the awareness and effectiveness of government security actions, its impact on conflict dynamics, and its role in regional stability. It adopted the cross-sectional research design and data were gathered using the survey method through the questionnaire instrument. With a total of 100 respondents absorbed as participants, the study focused on factors contributing to conflict escalation as perceived by the community and identifies government initiatives that have successfully de-escalated the conflict. The findings reveal a prevalence of human rights violations, including arbitrary arrests, extrajudicial killings, and freedom of speech restrictions, associated with these security responses. While some government actions positively influence conflict reduction, the study noted that the intricate challenges of balancing security measures with human rights preservation in conflict-prone regions were key factors to the tenacity of conflict in the Niger Delta region of Nigeria.