At least 1,686 people died in 909 gang-related incidents across Nigeria between January 2020 and March 2025, according to a new SBM Intelligence report.
According to the report, Rivers, Lagos, and Edo recorded the highest fatalities, with 215, 197, and 192 deaths respectively, driven by violent clashes among cult groups like Vikings, Icelanders, Eiye, Aiye, Black Axe, and Greenlanders.
The South-South region alone accounted for over 750 deaths, while the South-West recorded 491, mainly in Lagos and Ogun. In Benue, 204 were killed in cult violence.
Some areas like Borno, Zamfara, and Kebbi had almost zero cult-related deaths, due to terrorism overshadowing gang activity.
2021 was the deadliest year with 377 deaths, while 2024 saw the most incidents (273). SBM linked the persistent violence to poverty, weak policing, and social media amplifying reports.
The group warned the trend may worsen despite ongoing security operations.
