The Delta State kidnapping crisis has escalated into a major security concern,
as allegations emerge linking some traditional rulers and vigilante groups to the criminal activities of Fulani herdsmen.
What began as isolated incidents of abduction has now become a widespread menace, with communities across the state living in fear.
Residents are increasingly pointing fingers at those meant to protect them, accusing insiders of enabling kidnappers through secret deals and compromised loyalties.
The Allegations: Monarchs and Vigilantes Under Scrutiny
Recent investigations have unveiled troubling claims that some traditional rulers
and local vigilante members in Delta State are collaborating with Fulani herdsmen involved in kidnapping activities.
Residents and activists allege that these community leaders have accepted monetary gifts and livestock in exchange
for granting herdsmen access to community forests, which are then used as bases for criminal operations.
According to Vanguard’s Niger Delta Voice (NDV), some monarchs have clandestinely allowed herdsmen to settle in their communities,
a decision that has backfired as these herdsmen establish camps deep in the forests and launch abductions targeting residents, travelers, and farmers.
How Communities Became Silent Battlegrounds
Over the past year, the quiet communities of Delta State have gradually transformed into silent battlegrounds.
What once were lush forests and peaceful farmlands are now feared zones, dominated by armed criminals allegedly shielded by insiders.
Residents who were previously free to farm and travel now move cautiously, gripped by the fear of abduction.
Villagers recount how the herdsmen, initially welcomed with hospitality, soon began operating with military-style precision.
“They came as cattle rearers,” said a resident of Issele-Uku, “but now they terrorize us like an invading force.
They know our routes, they strike suddenly, and they retreat to the forest like ghosts.”
Governor Oborevwori’s Efforts and Criticisms
Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has introduced reforms to address the insecurity,
especially through the Delta State Community Security Corps Agency law.
While some applaud these efforts, many believe they are insufficient and have been slowed by political interests.
Human rights activist Harrison Gwamnishu has been vocal in calling for transparency and non-partisanship in security appointments.
According to him, allowing politicians to influence the nomination of Security Corps members opens the door for corruption and compromise.
“Security shouldn’t be political,” he asserted during a recent interview.
“You don’t place your people’s lives in the hands of political favors.”
Informants and the Ransom Economy
The most alarming aspect of the crisis is the reported presence of informants within communities.
Some youths and vigilante members allegedly collaborate with kidnappers, providing intelligence in return for a share of ransom money.
This betrayal has not only endangered lives but also eroded trust within neighborhoods.
A source familiar with the issue disclosed that the arrangement between local leaders and criminal herdsmen is a well-guarded secret.
Only a handful of trusted individuals are privy to the agreements, while the general public remains unaware.
“These herdsmen don’t operate randomly,” he said. “They are armed and protected.
They blend with others, set up well-hidden camps, and strike strategically.”
Forest Camps and the Role of Armed Herdsmen
The forests of Aniocha North, Aniocha South, Ibusa, and Abavo have reportedly become strongholds for herdsmen involved in kidnapping.
These camps are difficult to access and heavily guarded.
Residents claim that these areas have effectively become “no-go zones” even for law enforcement.
An anonymous vigilante commander explained that many of these camps were established with the knowledge and tacit approval of some traditional leaders.
“They’ve turned our forests into fortresses,” he said. “They are well-armed and have lookouts posted across routes. It’s an organized network.”
Government Inaction Fuels Anger
Delta State Kidnapping Crisis.
Many residents are growing frustrated with what they see as the government’s inaction.
While the governor has vowed to address insecurity, critics point to the absence of tangible progress.
They argue that the reluctance to punish implicated monarchs sends the wrong message.
A resident of Abavo stated, “If the governor doesn’t act like his counterpart in Edo State,
who suspended traditional rulers aiding kidnappers, then impunity will continue.
This crisis won’t go away with words it requires decisive action.”
Suspended Monarchs in Neighboring States Set an Example
The comparison with Edo State is frequently cited.
Governor Monday Okpebholo’s swift action to suspend monarchs allegedly involved in abetting kidnapping won widespread praise.
Many Delta residents believe a similar approach is necessary in their state.
“Governor Okpebholo showed leadership,” one community elder remarked.
“He prioritized people’s safety over political ties. That’s what we need here in Delta.”
Community Voices: Betrayal and Resistance
Despite the disheartening revelations, not all leaders have compromised their values.
Pa Uhurhemue Erhiahwe, a 95-year-old traditional head of Egbo-Kokori in Ethiope East, is one of the few who resisted pressure.
He shared how he turned down a N10 million bribe and cows offered by Fulani herdsmen.
“I cannot betray my people,” he declared. “These men destroy our crops, rape our daughters, and instill fear.
I would rather die poor than sell my conscience.”
His courageous stand has made him a symbol of integrity and resistance.
Activists and community groups have begun rallying around such honest leaders, calling for their recognition and support.
Police Confirm Long-Standing Concerns
Former Commissioner of Police in Delta State, Hafiz Inuwa, had previously raised alarms about traditional rulers receiving payments from herdsmen.
According to him, these secret deals made it difficult for the police to act effectively.
“When leaders give cover to criminals, it undermines law enforcement,” he said.
Vigilante Groups Infiltrated
Traditional ruler Pere S.P. Luke, Kalanama VII, of Akugbene-Mein, confirmed that many local vigilante groups have been infiltrated.
He warned that some members now operate like armed militias, not defenders of the people.
“We cannot continue to pretend,” he said. “There are enemies within.”
This revelation is significant because vigilante groups are often the first line of defense in rural areas.
If compromised, the communities become even more vulnerable.
A Monarch Speaks Out: Denial and Blame
One of the monarchs accused of facilitating land deals for herdsmen has denied the allegations.
In a public statement, he blamed “corrupt individuals and law enforcement officers” for the growing insecurity and demanded
that investigative bodies audit the bank accounts of community leaders and police personnel alike.
“Let the truth come out,” he challenged. “Not everyone wearing a crown is guilty. Some of us are working silently to protect our communities.”
Residents Demand Rigorous Screening
As the Delta State House of Assembly deliberates amendments to the Community Security Corps law,
residents are demanding rigorous background checks for nominees.
Many argue that only transparent and community-approved individuals should be appointed.
“No politician should have the power to select security personnel without public vetting,” a youth leader in Ibusa stated.
“We’ve seen the danger of blind appointments. It has cost us lives.”
The Need for Rebuilding Trust
Amid growing fear and distrust, rebuilding community confidence will be a long process.
Civil society organizations have begun grassroots awareness campaigns to educate residents on how to report suspicious activity anonymously.
Meanwhile, calls for a state-wide audit of land transactions and herdsmen settlements are growing louder.
Security experts suggest that without holding local enablers accountable, law enforcement alone cannot defeat the kidnapping menace.
“This is not just a crime issue it’s a system failure,” a retired army officer said.
“When leaders sell their people out, the entire structure collapses.”
Conclusion: A Call for Justice and Accountability
The crisis in Delta State is more than a security emergency it’s a moral reckoning.
As residents endure the trauma of kidnappings, displacement, and fear,
the actions (or inactions) of traditional rulers and security agents are being scrutinized like never before.
To address this crisis, Delta State must go beyond surface reforms.
It needs bold, transparent leadership that prioritizes citizens over political calculations.
The complicity of insiders must be exposed, and those guilty must face the consequences.
Communities must stand united to resist infiltration, protect their vulnerable, and demand that their leaders uphold the sacred duty of service.
Only then can peace and trust return to Delta’s troubled lands.
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