Benue: Fear grips residents, travellers as kidnappers occupy Owukpa communities

Owukpa, situated in the Ogbadibo Local Government Area of Benue State, has transformed into a refuge for kidnappers. Currently, more than ten communities in the area are facing continuous attacks, instilling fear among the residents. Previously peaceful places like Ankpa, Odobe, Umufu, Ubafu, Atamaka, Ai-Fam, and their surroundings are now living in constant dread, as criminal elements wreak havoc without restraint.

Even commuters are not exempt from this menace. Over the past five months, the number of kidnapping victims has exceeded 100, with certain routes proving particularly dangerous. The Aho-Ankpa road and Atakama-Ugbugbu road have gained notoriety as focal points for criminal activities, along with the Orokam-Owukpa road and Okpoga-Aifam road witnessing multiple incidents. Travelers along these routes now express heightened concerns about their safety.

Recently, a family of eight was abducted on the Atamaka road, and the kidnappers, dissatisfied with the ransom delay, threatened to harm them. The victims, held captive for several days, shared their harrowing experience, revealing that the criminals were fluent in both Hausa and Fulani languages.

This surge in criminal activity has compelled Owukpa residents to travel in convoys to enhance their safety. Even during the festive season, a native named John was kidnapped on his wedding night, returning from Aho Ogbo market, emphasizing the urgent need for enhanced security measures. Engr Raymond and his wife, Mrs. Cordelia Agada, also fell victim to abduction along the Owukpa-Aifam-Okpoga road.

In response to the escalating threats, the women of Owukpa invoked the deity Ekwuanya in 2023 against any community member involved in kidnapping. However, this spiritual intervention seems to have minimal impact on curbing the prevailing menace.

Despite the presence of local community guards, kidnappers operate with impunity. HRH Emmanuel Odeh, the traditional ruler of Ogbadibo, expressed deep concern about the security situation, citing the vulnerability of Owukpa due to its proximity to neighboring states, porous borders, and vast forest areas. He criticized the government’s inadequate response, highlighting the shortage of law enforcement personnel 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 these concerns, describing the situation as disturbing. He emphasized the urgent need for more government support, particularly in providing essential weapons to enhance the effectiveness of the vigilante group combating the security challenges in Owukpa.