Of Blood and Human Parts: The Underground Economy of the Human Body Parts Business in Southwest Nigeria, by Kenneth Nwoko

This study investigates the underground economy of human body parts business in southwest Nigeria, exploring the structure of the demand and supply chains and how these are sustained. It examines the activities of various players in this organized crime network. It explores how this illicit trade has survived despite law enforcement crackdowns and evaluates the challenges in addressing this phenomenon.

The research reveals a complex network of extraction, exploitation, and disposal that thrives on socio-economic hardships, pervasive poverty, and criminal exploitation. The study addresses critical questions about the nature of this business, its attractions, major players, and its relationship to rising insecurity in Nigeria.

Kenneth NWOKO is professor in the Department of History & International Studies, McPherson University, Seriki Sotayo, Abeokuta, Ogun State, Nigeria. He received his PhD (History & Strategic Studies) from the University of Lagos, Akoka, Nigeria. His teaching and research interests include African History, International Relations, Peace and Conflict Studies.

Supported by the GATES project (Grenoble ATtractiveness and ExcellenceS), funded by the French government's Programme d'Investissement Avenir and implemented by ANR France 2030