Armed Conflict Location and Event Data project for Africa (ACLED)

The Armed Conflict Location and Event Data project for Africa (ACLED) is a comprehensive database that tracks various forms of political violence, including attacks targeting local government officials. As Nigerians prepare to head to the polls in 2023 amidst widespread insecurity, it's essential to understand the scope and nature of this violence.

According to ACLED, the project covers a wide range of countries and regions across Africa, with varying time periods for each country. This means that users can access information on specific conflicts or events within different areas and timeframes.

One notable aspect of ACLED's data is its focus on attacks targeting property linked to government functions or owned by local officials. This includes local government buildings, courts, election centers, and adjacent public or private property. The project also tracks violence against local officials themselves, whether elected, appointed, or part of subnational state institutions.

In its methodology note, ACLED defines local officials as administrators who are part of subnational government institutions, from the first-level administration division down to cities, towns, and villages. This includes civil servants, election officials, poll workers, local justice officials, and other local authorities.

The database contains events classified under the 'local administrators' tag, where violence is used against local officials or their property is targeted or destroyed. For instance, attacks on local government buildings, courts, or election centers are recorded as instances of violence targeting local officials.

ACLED's work in tracking violence against local officials provides valuable insights into the complexities of political conflict and instability in Africa. By analyzing these data, researchers, policymakers, and humanitarian organizations can better understand the nature of violence and its impact on communities and governments.

For more information on ACLED's methodology and findings, readers are encouraged to explore the project's introductory report and methodology note on the 'local administrators' tag.