Our reporter
Residents of Ughonoba Community in the Uhunmwonde Local Government Area of Edo State have urgently appealed to both the State government and relevant authorities to address the growing concerns over security and the dire state of public infrastructure in the area.
The community, which is primarily agrarian, has seen a disturbing rise in kidnappings, with many residents describing the situation as a daily threat to their safety. Aside from the security challenges, the area is plagued by a lack of basic public amenities, with secondary schools in a particularly deplorable state.
In a recent statement, youth leader Mr. Eliot Ikponmwosa explained that the combination of frequent kidnappings, the absence of adequate infrastructure, and ongoing chieftaincy disputes had created a climate of fear and unrest. The presence of herdsmen in the region, he added, had further exacerbated the situation, with reports of them encroaching on local farmlands.
“The situation has reached a worrying point,” Mr. Ikponmwosa said. “Aside from the constant threat of kidnapping, our farmlands are being destroyed by herdsmen, and there is no proper infrastructure to support the community. The government must step in before things spiral further.”
The youth leader also raised alarm over a developing chieftaincy crisis in the area. He claimed that one Mr. Victor Ogiugo had been posing as the Enogie (traditional ruler) of the dukedom, despite widespread opposition from the community. Mr. Ikponmwosa alleged that Mr. Ogiugo had sold large tracts of land to herdsmen, contributing to the increasing tensions in the community.
Another local resident, Mr. Sunny Obasuyi, added that despite efforts by the community to provide their own security, the continued activities of herdsmen had made life untenable. “We are trying to protect ourselves, but without proper support, we are overwhelmed,” he stated.
In response to the allegations, His Royal Highness, Chief Victor Ogiugo, the Enogie of Ughoneki Ikpoba Dukedom, denied the claims, describing them as “false and baseless.” He maintained that his actions were in the best interest of the community and dismissed any suggestion of wrongdoing.
The call for intervention comes at a critical time for the residents of Ughonoba, as they continue to face growing insecurity and a lack of basic services. Many hope that the state government will heed their plea and take immediate action to restore safety and improve infrastructure in the area.
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