Unnatural Deaths in Benin City Nigeria: Two Decades Analysis of Violent Deaths

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this study is to estimate the mortality attributable to violence and trauma and to highlight the need for preventive measures. Method: The records of all accidental, suicidal and homicidal deaths seen in the department of pathology, University of Benin Teaching Hospital, Benin City from January 1990 to December 2009 were reviewed. Result: Unnatural/violent cases accounted for 1,529 (34.1%) of all medicolegal cases within the study period. Accidental deaths accounted for 1,283 (83.9%), homicide
223 (14.6%) and suicide 23 (1.5%) of all unnatural deaths. A total of 1204 males and 325 females were involved in a male to female ratio is 3.7:1. The commonest cause of accidental deaths was road traffic crashes which accounted for 1136 (88.5%) of cases. A total of 1,019 males and 264 females were involved in accidental deaths with a male to female ratio of 3.9:1. Homicidal deaths occurred in 166 males and 57 females. The commonest method of homicide was by use of firearms, which accounted for 154 (69.1%) cases. Suicides were seen in only 23 cases, 19 males and 4 females, in a male to female ratio of 4.8:1. Conclusion: So long as unemployment, poverty and hunger remain with us, violent deaths will continue especially homicides caused by kidnappers. If jobs are available, majority will not resolve to ride motorbikes as source of livelihood. Government should also try to provide better transport system and good roads.