The Kogi East Neighborhood Watch (KENW) has expressed grave concern over the increasing insecurity within the Kogi Eastern Senatorial District.
In a statement released on Monday by its Director of Public Communication, Wing Commander Iye Ayefu (rtd), the group accused the Deputy Governor of Kogi State, Joel Salifu Oyibo, of failing to address the escalating security challenges in his local government area, Ofu.
According to the statement, kidnapping incidents have become a daily occurrence, particularly along the Ogbakpedo route between Okabo and Ochadamu in Ofu Local Government Area. Perpetrators, often disguised in military attire, brazenly target commuters and demand hefty ransoms. The most recent incident occurred on May 16, 2024.
The statement further revealed that a staff member of Prince Abubakar Audu University Anyigba narrowly escaped kidnapping but sustained gunshot wounds in the process. Currently, the victim is undergoing medical treatment at the Federal Teaching Hospital Lokoja.
Despite being apprised of these incidents, the State Security Adviser, Commander Omodara (rtd), and the Local Government Council Administrator have purportedly failed to devise effective solutions to curb the scourge of kidnapping.
Additionally, recent attacks on farmers around Ochadamu have instilled fear, hindering agricultural activities in the area.
In response to these challenges, KENW has resolved to mobilize stakeholders to address the kidnapping menace. The group commended some actions taken by the Deputy Governor, expressing hope that sustained efforts would alleviate the prevailing insecurity in the region.
