The convoy consisted of two vehicles and nine people, all Nigerians. The convoy was on its way to a location where the U.S.
government is funding a flood project. Several separatist groups are active in this southeastern region and have recently stepped up their attacks, usually targeting police and government buildings. Nigerian authorities attribute the attacks to the Indigenous Biafra Movement (Ipob), which they consider a terrorist group as well as its armed wing of the Eastern Security Network.