Traditional rulers of the Anioma ethnic group in Delta State convened at Owa-Oyibu, Ika North East Local Government Area recently. High on their agenda was the alarming rise in daring kidnappings plaguing their community. These criminal activities specifically target farmers and residents, demanding ransom for their release.
Expressing deep concern, the monarchs, represented by Dr. Emmanuel Efeizomor II, the Chairman and Obi of Owa, and Dr. Henry Kikachukwu I, the Vice Chairman and Obi of Ubulu-Unor, issued a communique.
They lamented the pervasive insecurity that now keeps their people from venturing to the fields for fear of abduction or violence.
They highlighted the distressing incidents of women falling victim to rape and abuse at the hands of criminals who have made the dense forests and thick bushes their hideouts.
According to Vanguard, The monarchs, in a communique by the Chairman and Obi of Owa, Dr. Emmanuel Efeizomor 11, and the Vice Chairman and Obi of Ubulu-Unor, Dr. Henry Kikachukwu 1, stated:
”We are alarmed at the devastating menace of insecurity in the land to the extent that our people no longer go to the farm for fear of either being killed or kidnapped.
“Our women are being constantly raped and abused by criminals who have taken the thick forest and bush as their place of abode. Are these issues not enough challenges for our politicians to address?”