This report analyzes the dynamics of targeted killings in the country using a specially designed dataset over the period 2000 to 2017.

The report relays the highlights of this data through a discussion of the demographic patterns of targeted killings in Nigeria, including certain groups that are frequently targeted (politicians, civil servants, traditional and religious leaders, journalists etc.), as well as where assassinations predominantly occur.

The paper contextualizes the findings within Nigeria’s historical and political development, and foregrounds certain key patterns in targeted killings, describing the trends that have incentivized targeted killing.

Finally, a discussion of the implications of targeted violence for broader social violence in Nigeria and policy recommendations for reducing the levels of targeted killings are provided.