A sociopolitical group in Benue State, the Ojetoha K’Idoma has called on relevant authorities to act fast in stemming the tides of kidnappings and assassinations in Otukpo, the traditional capital of the Idoma nation.
Addressing the media after an emergency meeting in Otukpo on Tuesday, Comrade Adams Abounu, convener of the group, described as “unacceptable” the widespread apprehension of the people of Otukpo, Apa and Agatu local governments that have been affected by kidnappings, violent herders-farmers clashes and wanton killings.
“We cannot afford to fold our arms and watch criminality hold our people hostage in their homes. From the riverine fringes of Agatu, Apa and Otukpo local governments, we have seen an unfortunate rise at the rate at which innocent people are being kidnapped for outrageous ransoms while others are being killed in cold blood.
“Otukpo, a town hitherto known for tranquility has become a hotbed for violent abductions and assassinations. Our people now live in fear, sleeping with both eyes opened.
“We are sending an SOS message to Governor Hyacinth Alia to use his good office and rejig the security architecture in Otukpo, Apa & Agatu areas to halt this descend to anarchy.
“The Idoma nation must be saved from this security disaster and government at all levels must act in urgency,” Abounu charged.
The group also indicated it’s readiness to provide legal services for a farmer who was arrested at Usha in Agatu local government for allegedly poisoning his farm crops with pesticides that led to the death of some cattle that encroached into his farm.
Abounu declared that Idoma youths were ready to form a volunteer force that would provide needed support for security interventions.
