Owukpa, a district in Ogbadibo Local Government Area of Benue State, has turned into a haven for kidnappers, striking fear into the hearts of residents and travelers alike. Over ten communities, including Ankpa, Odobe, Umufu, Ubafu, Atamaka, and Ai-Fam, are now under siege.
Communities that were once peaceful have become hotspots for criminal activities, with more than 100 people falling victim to kidnappings in the past five months. Certain routes, such as Aho-Ankpa road and Atakama-Ugbugbu road, have gained notoriety for these heinous acts.
The Orokam-Owukpa road and Okpoga-Aifam road have also witnessed numerous incidents, raising concerns about the safety of travelers along these routes.
Recent incidents include the kidnapping of a family of eight on Atamaka road, where the kidnappers threatened to kill them over delayed ransom payment. Victims held captive for days recounted traumatic experiences, highlighting the audacity of criminals who communicate fluently in both Hausa and Fulani languages.
This wave of insecurity has forced Owukpa residents to move in convoys for safety. Even during the yuletide, a resident named John was kidnapped on his wedding night, emphasizing the urgency of the situation.
Despite efforts to address the issue, including a spiritual intervention by the women of Owukpa invoking the deity Ekwuanya against kidnappers, the problem persists. Local community guards, though present, seem unable to prevent kidnappers from operating with impunity.
HRH Emmanuel Odeh, the traditional ruler of Ogbadibo, expressed deep concern about the security situation. He identified Owukpa’s vulnerability due to its proximity to neighboring states Enugu and Ebonyi, porous borders, and vast forest areas.
Odeh criticized the government’s inadequate response, citing the shortage of law enforcement personnel in Owukpa and the ban on civilian gun ownership, leaving residents defenseless against well-armed kidnappers.
Amos Agada, the Commander of Constabulary Police in Ehaje II, echoed concerns about the lack of safety in Owukpa. He reported recent incidents, including the hijacking of a fully-loaded bus with all passengers kidnapped.
Agada emphasized the urgent need for support from the government, particularly in providing weapons to enhance the vigilante group’s effectiveness in tackling the security challenges.
In the face of escalating threats and a lackluster response, Owukpa residents and travelers continue to live in fear, hoping for swift and decisive action to restore safety to their once-peaceful communities.
