Edo Farming Communities Appeal for Permanent Security Formation After Deadly Attack

Benin, April 7, 2025 (NAN) – Survivors of the recent attack on farming communities in Ovia South-West Local Government Area of Edo State have appealed to Governor Monday Okpebholo to expedite the establishment of a permanent security formation in the area, as promised, to ensure their safety and prevent future attacks.

The appeal came after a brutal raid by suspected militants that left at least 22 people dead and destroyed property worth millions of naira. The attackers, believed to have come from nearby creeks, launched indiscriminate gunfire, set houses ablaze, torched motorcycles, and forced thousands of residents to flee to neighboring communities.

While calm is gradually returning to the affected communities, including Marindoti, Gbelemontin Domiju, Kola Village, Taiye Camp, Eto Camp, Dipe, Babadele, and Thousand Camp, residents remain fearful of further violence.

In response to the crisis, Gov. Okpebholo swiftly intervened, approving the establishment of a Joint Task Force post manned by combined military and police operatives. The state government also donated three Hilux Vans to facilitate round-the-clock patrols in the affected areas.

Despite the government’s intervention, residents, especially those in Marindoti, are still apprehensive. The Baale (traditional leader) of Marindoti, Obazuaye Igbala, commended the state’s efforts but urged the governor to expedite the construction of a permanent security base. He revealed that the community had set up a temporary security post with mattresses, kitchen equipment, borehole, and a generator to accommodate the security personnel until the government fulfills its promise.

“I want to thank the governor for his promises and intervention,” said Evangelist Israel Michael, another community leader. “But most of our people are still in fear and have not returned home. The attackers are boasting that they will ensure there is no security presence in our area. We need the promised security base to feel safe again.”

In addition to security concerns, local leaders lamented that some of the assailants continue to steal farm produce from the affected communities. Despite the efforts of the 4 Brigade of the Nigerian Army, which has been patrolling the area with Hilux Vans, residents remain vulnerable without a permanent security base.

Chief Ademola Odunola, the Baale of Thousand Camp, echoed these concerns, urging the governor to follow through with his directives and establish a permanent security formation in the area.

The community leaders also called on traditional rulers, youths, and local vigilance groups to support the governor’s initiative, as they emphasized that a sustained security presence was crucial to preventing further bloodshed and restoring peace to their farming settlements.

Tags: