Table of Contents
Kidnapping Incident in Akoko-Edo Sparks Security Measures
The Edo State Police Command has officially acknowledged the abduction of the spouse of Ubani Okuo, who serves as the Chairman of the Youth Group in Igarra Community, the administrative center of Akoko-Edo Local Government Area.
Police Response and Rescue Operations
On Thursday, January 22, the Police Public Relations Officer confirmed the incident and revealed that the Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika, has mandated all Divisional Police Officers within the jurisdiction to collaborate closely to secure the safe return of the kidnapped woman.
“We received intelligence regarding a suspected kidnapping. The Commissioner has instructed all relevant Divisional Police Officers to unite their efforts in the ongoing rescue mission,” the spokesperson stated.
Details of the Abduction
The victim was reportedly taken on the night of Tuesday, January 20, while returning home from her business premises in the town. This alarming event has heightened concerns about safety within the community.
Community-Imposed Curfew and Restrictions
In response to the incident, local authorities have enforced a curfew from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. Additionally, restrictions have been placed on night burial ceremonies, limiting them to a two-hour window between 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. to curb potential criminal activities during late hours.
Traditional and Governmental Collaboration
Oba Adeche Saiki, the paramount ruler of the Igarra/Akuku Clan, corroborated the kidnapping report and emphasized that the curfew was a collective decision involving the local government chairman, police officials, and traditional leaders.
“We believe that criminal elements have infiltrated our community and may be blending in with residents before executing their plans under the cover of darkness,” Oba Saiki explained. “The curfew is a unified measure agreed upon by the local government, law enforcement, and traditional authorities, and it will be strictly enforced throughout the entire local government area.”
Context and Broader Security Concerns
Kidnapping cases in Edo State have seen a worrying increase, with recent statistics from the Nigerian Police Force indicating a 15% rise in abduction reports in the first quarter of 2024 compared to the previous year. This trend has prompted intensified security protocols and community vigilance initiatives across the region.
Similar communities have adopted curfews and restricted nighttime activities as preventive strategies, reflecting a growing emphasis on safeguarding residents and deterring criminal networks.
