Edo community seeks gov’s intervention over killing

The Imoga community in Edo State's Akoko Edo Local Government Area is urging Governor Monday Okpebholo to intervene after a resident, Monday Obanigba, was allegedly killed by suspected herders. A protest letter dated July 20, 2026, highlights a disturbing pattern of violent attacks that threaten the community's peace and security. Residents report that persistent insecurity prevents farmers from accessing their farmlands, jeopardizing livelihoods and food security.

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The latest killing by suspected Fulani herders is difficult for us to take. We call on the governor and the security agencies to come to our aid.

The community's geographical location, sharing extensive boundaries with Kogi and Ondo states, exacerbates the challenge, making it susceptible to cross-border criminal activities and armed attackers. While acknowledging efforts by state and local governments, the Imoga residents specifically requested the establishment of a permanent security base within their community. They also called for stronger collaboration among security agencies in Edo, Kogi, and Ondo states to combat cross-border criminal activities.

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The peculiar geographical location of Imoga further compounds the challenge. Our community shares extensive boundaries with both Kogi State and Ondo State, making it susceptible to cross-border criminal activities and the easy movement of armed attackers.

Alabi Oshionogue, Chairman of the Akoko Edo Local Government Area, acknowledged the killing as unfortunate and charged members of the Edo State Security Corps to intensify efforts against insecurity. He expressed that more should be expected from the security corps, given the resources committed to them. Oshionogue urged personnel to redouble their efforts in combating kidnapping and other crimes, emphasizing that security is local. Topa Okomayin, Chairman of the Screening Committee and Secretary to the Local Government, criticized the perceived nonchalant attitude of some Edo State Security Corps personnel in the area.

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I must say that more is expected of us; security is local, and with the number of Edo State Security Corps being paid by the Council to enhance grassroots security, I do not see any reason we should still be talking about kidnapping in Akoko-Edo with this number of personnel here.