Residents Demand Military Action Against Kidnappings in Edo

Residents of Auchi in Edo State have urgently called for intervention from President Bola Tinubu and the military high command due to a surge in kidnappings and killings in their area. This plea was articulated in an open letter signed by community members, including Abdul Maleeq, and addressed to various officials, including the Minister of Defence and the Chief of Defence Staff.

The letter highlights a recent incident on April 19, where a young man named Christoph was killed, and a female acquaintance was abducted near a military checkpoint known as the Fertilis checkpoint along the Auchi-Igarra road. Despite the presence of soldiers at the nearby Igbira Camp, residents allege that kidnappers operate freely, often escaping due to delays at the checkpoint.

The community expressed deep frustration over the perceived inaction of the military, which they believe should be protecting them but has instead become a symbol of abandonment. They are calling for a review of military activities and disciplinary actions against personnel accused of misconduct.