Panic has gripped the agrarian community of Ayogwiri community in Uzairue clan, Etsako West local government area of Edo State following the kidnapping of a 12-year-old girl.
The kidnappers, suspected to be Fulani herders, allegedly attacked some women on their way from the farm and abducted a 12-year-old girl after releasing her mother.
Two women were said to have been injured during the abduction which took place in the afternoon. They are said to be currently receiving treatment at the hospital, while the kidnappers took the young girl into custody.
The community responded to the abduction news, with vigilantes and hunters launching a rescue mission in the bushes.
According to unconfirmed sources the kidnappers have opened communication demanding N5 million as ransom.
The Ayogwiri incident is part of a disturbing trend of attacks and kidnappings in Edo North senatorial district, with many incidents going unresolved due to perceived security lapses.
Inhabitants of the area are now finding it increasingly difficult to engage in farming activities due to the fear of being abducted.
The community is urging the state government to enhance security measures to prevent further incidents.
The Etsako axis has witnessed a surge in kidnappings, with incidents occurring almost daily.
A statement issued by Engr Vincent Ozemoya , the chairman of the Board of Trustees of the umbrella body of the community condemned the development.
The statement read, “We received with grave concern the attack of some women from Ayogwiri and their daughter who were returning from their farms. In the process, our daughter was abducted by the marauders while our women were brutally assaulted.
”The BoT calls on all relevant security agencies in the area to rise up and rid our farms and forests of evil elements, be they herdsmen or kidnappers.
”Our farmers must feel safe and free to cultivate and provide food for their families without molestation and intimidation whatsoever. Our internal security architecture should wake up and take back our land and farms.
”We must deal with this situation decisively. We acknowledge and commend all necessary actions being taken to rescue our daughter unhurt.
”I therefore urge our people to remain calm but vigilant as the appropriate authorities do the needful”, he said.
