The Senior Special Assistant on Civil Society and Youth Mobilisation to the Delta State Governor, Harrison Gwamnishu, has raised concerns over the rising cases of kidnapping allegedly carried out by Fulani herders in parts of the state.
Gwamnishu voiced his concerns in multiple Facebook posts on Thursday, following the tragic death of Esther Osaze, a female land agent who was abducted and later found dead.
PUNCH Metro reports that Esther was kidnapped on Monday while returning from an estate inspection near the Nigerian Admiralty University, Ibusa, alongside three colleagues. Her lifeless body was discovered on Wednesday in the Ibusa community, located in the Oshimili North Local Government Area.
Tragic Incident Sparks Outrage
According to sources, Esther and her colleagues were attacked by gunmen after inspecting a piece of land. While her body was recovered, other victims remain in captivity as their families struggle to meet the ransom demands.
In his statement, Gwamnishu lamented the ongoing security challenges in the region, emphasizing that kidnappers have been terrorizing several communities for months.
“Esther was tragically killed by kidnappers who have been operating in Ibusa, Ogwashi, Azagba, Issele-Azagba, and Ubulu-Uku for months,” he wrote.
He added, “It is important to note that there are still other kidnapped victims in the bush whose families cannot pay the huge ransoms demanded.”
Gwamnishu acknowledged the efforts of local authorities, particularly the Aniocha South and Oshimili North Local Government Area chairmen, for mobilizing local vigilantes to tackle the criminal activities.
Kidnapping Hotspots Identified
In a warning to prospective land buyers, Gwamnishu identified several towns as kidnapping hotspots and urged caution when visiting these areas.
“The following towns—Otilu, Okiti, Issele, Ibusa, Azagba, Ubulu-Uku, Akwukwu-Igbo, and Ugbolu—are where the kidnappings occur daily, and not Asaba itself,” he cautioned.
He further advised, “Before you join anyone for land inspections, ensure security is guaranteed. Without proper security measures in place, do not go.”
Calls for National Attention
Gwamnishu urged Nigerians and international observers to pay attention to the security crisis unfolding in Delta State, warning that the silence from authorities could further embolden criminals.
“We must use our platforms to tell the world the war we are currently fighting. The world should know that some Fulani kidnappers have surrounded Aniocha/Oshimili and other parts of Delta State,” he stated.
Despite increased security efforts, residents and community leaders continue to express concerns about the safety of lives and property, calling for urgent intervention from federal and state authorities to curb the growing wave of kidnappings.
