Second Brother of Delta Anti-Kidnapping Activist Dies in Suspected Retaliation After Security Forces Kill Four Kidnap Suspects

A fresh wave of grief has swept through Delta State as Aruoture Dafe, the brother of slain activist Marcus Samuel Dafe, has also died from gunshot wounds sustained in a suspected retaliatory attack. His death occurred just hours after Marcus was killed, sparking outrage and fear among residents.

Marcus, a vocal critic of the growing insecurity in Delta State, had recently participated in a public protest against kidnappings. On June 4, social media erupted with news of his death, reportedly at the hands of kidnappers. Now, the death of his brother Aruoture has deepened the tragedy.

The brothers were attacked near the railway corridor in Abraka, an area locals have long described as dangerous and notorious for ambushes. According to preliminary reports, their vehicle was riddled with bullets during the assault. Marcus died on the spot, while Aruoture, initially injured, has now succumbed to his wounds.

The attack came shortly after security forces reportedly killed four suspected Fulani kidnappers in the same area—a development that had already heightened tensions in the community. Many fear the killing of the Dafe brothers may be linked to that earlier incident, raising concerns about a possible retaliatory motive.