Residents of Odo-Ape in Kogi State are living in fear after gunmen abducted nine people, including the newly elected councillor for Odo-Ape Ward, in the Kabba-Bunu Legislative Council.
The abduction occurred early on Wednesday, December 4, 2024, at around 1am. The attackers stormed the community, firing indiscriminately before taking their victims from their homes.
A local source, who spoke on condition of anonymity, told PUNCH: “The people of Odo-Ape are now living in fear, not knowing who will be the next victim.”
The gunmen’s actions have left the community in shock, as this is not the first time such a crime has taken place in Odo-Ape. Just a week earlier, three people, including an eight-year-old boy, were kidnapped in the same area.
Victims Include Five Gwaris, Two Bassas, and a Councillor
Of the nine people taken, seven are residents of Odo-Ape, including five Gwaris and two Bassas. Only the councillor, whose name has not been confirmed, is an indigene of the area.
The community is calling for urgent intervention. The same anonymous source said, “We appeal to the security agencies and the state government to protect lives and property and ensure the safe release of the abductees.”
The Kogi State Police Public Relations Officer, SP William Anya, has yet to comment on the incident. However, a top government security official confirmed the abduction.
“We have swung into action, and we will make our position known in a short time,” the official assured. “The state security apparatus is on top of the situation.”
Kogi Government’s Response and Reassurance
The government has urged the people of Odo-Ape to remain calm, despite the growing tension. The security official emphasized that there is no need to panic.
“The government is fully aware of the situation and is taking necessary steps to ensure the safety of the residents,” he said. “The people should go about their daily activities without fear.”
Despite this reassurance, the level of insecurity in the area is becoming a serious concern. With the recent kidnapping of an eight-year-old child, many are questioning the effectiveness of the security measures in place.
A Growing Concern Over Insecurity
The abduction in Odo-Ape highlights the ongoing insecurity in Kogi State. The community, along with others in the state, has witnessed a rise in violent crimes and kidnappings, causing widespread fear.
Many residents are now concerned about the rising number of abductions and the lack of a strong security presence in their communities. The state government’s response, though prompt, has yet to bring any substantial resolution to the ongoing threat faced by citizens.
Odo-Ape is not the only community affected. Over the past months, other areas in Kogi State have experienced similar attacks. Kidnapping for ransom is becoming a growing problem, with criminals taking advantage of the region’s vulnerable state.
Security Challenges Across Kogi State
The issue of insecurity in Kogi is not new. In recent years, the state has been grappling with various forms of criminal activities, including armed robbery, banditry, and kidnappings. These crimes have spread across several local government areas, creating an atmosphere of fear and uncertainty.
Despite efforts by the Kogi State government to improve security, including the deployment of security forces and the establishment of various security initiatives, the problem persists. Many residents feel that the government’s efforts have not been enough to address the growing threat.
