JUST IN: “Abandoned and Under Siege: Akoko-Edo Voices Rise Against Insecurity, neglect”
OGB Joseph, Abuja
Akoko-Edo Local Government Area of Edo State has once again come under the spotlight as concerned indigenes raise alarm over worsening insecurity, poor infrastructure, and what they describe as years of government neglect.
Speaking on behalf of the group, Dr. Charles Jagun, who led a peaceful protest by concerned Akoko-Edo indigenes, painted a grim picture of a community battling daily fear, economic hardship, and political abandonment.
According to him, Akoko-Edo has become one of the most neglected local government areas in Edo State, if not the entire South-South region. He lamented that insecurity, particularly kidnapping, has become a daily occurrence, turning normal life into a constant struggle for survival.
“Akoko-Edo today is highly unsafe. Kidnapping has become a routine. People are being taken from their homes, and our roads are in terrible condition. A journey of just 15 kilometres can take hours,” Jagun stated.
He expressed frustration that despite repeated efforts by community leaders—including written petitions and visits to both past and present administrations—no meaningful response has been received.
The group also questioned the silence of key political representatives, including Senator Adams Oshiomhole, House of Representatives member Peter Akpatason, and members of the Edo State House of Assembly, Yekini Idaiye and Donald Okogbe.
“We are asking these leaders: what have we done to deserve this level of abandonment?” Jagun queried.
The protest leaders further criticized the local government administration, noting that the Chairman, Hon. Alablish Oshiobugie, has allegedly failed to engage with the people on their pressing concerns.
They decried the lack of developmental infrastructure in the area, particularly the absence of higher institutions that could attract growth and opportunities for young people. According to them, Akoko-Edo has continually been used as a political tool during elections, only to be forgotten once votes have been secured.
“During elections, promises are made, and in some cases, votes are even forced. But once power is secured, those promises are abandoned. We are tired of bad politics,” he added.
The group emphasized that the prevailing insecurity has crippled economic activities, especially farming, which remains the backbone of the local economy. Many residents, they said, now fear going to their farms due to the threat of abduction.
They issued a direct call to the Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, to urgently intervene and restore security and development to the area.
The protest, however, was not without incident. It was reportedly disrupted by individuals alleged to be political thugs, led by one Topa Okomayin, who the group claims is the current Vice Chairman of Akoko-Edo Local Government.
Jagun described the disruption as unfortunate and a blow to democratic expression, noting that the protest was peaceful and aimed solely at drawing attention to the plight of the people.
“It is disheartening that even our peaceful attempt to be heard was disrupted. This raises serious concerns about the state of democracy and leadership accountability in our locality,” he said.
The group concluded by reiterating its demand for immediate government action, warning that continued neglect could further deepen the crisis in Akoko-Edo.
“Our people deserve safety, development, and a government that listens. Akoko-Edo must not be forgotten any longer,” Jagun declared.
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