The Imoga community in Akoko Edo Local Government Area of Edo State has appealed to Governor Monday Okpebholo to intervene following the alleged killing of a resident, Monday Obanigba, by suspected herders.
In a protest letter dated July 20, 2026, and signed by Jeffery Obasanmi, the community urged the governor and security agencies to take immediate action to address the worsening security situation in the area.
The letter, which was made available to journalists in Benin City on Tuesday, described the incident as part of a growing pattern of violent attacks that continues to threaten the peace and safety of the community.
Residents also expressed concern that the persistent insecurity has prevented many farmers from accessing their farmlands, posing a serious threat to livelihoods and food production.
The letter read in part, “The latest killing by suspected Fulani herders is difficult for us to bear. We call on the governor and the security agencies to come to our aid.
“The peculiar geographical location of Imoga further compounds the challenge. Our community shares extensive boundaries with both Kogi State and Ondo State, making it vulnerable to cross-border criminal activities and the easy movement of armed attackers.”
While acknowledging the efforts of the state and local governments to improve security, the community appealed for the establishment of a permanent security base in Imoga.
The residents also called for stronger collaboration among security agencies in Edo, Kogi, and Ondo states to effectively tackle cross-border crimes.
Reacting to the incident, the Chairman of Akoko Edo Local Government Area, Alabi Oshionogue, directed members of the Edo State Security Corps to intensify efforts to curb insecurity across the area.
Describing the killing as unfortunate, Oshionogue said the level of insecurity should have reduced considering the resources invested in strengthening the security corps.
In a statement issued on Tuesday by his Chief Press Secretary, Ajayi Julius, the chairman urged security personnel to redouble their efforts in tackling kidnapping and other criminal activities.
He said, “I must say that more is expected of us. Security is local, and with the number of Edo State Security Corps personnel being paid by the Council to enhance grassroots security, I do not see any reason we should still be talking about kidnapping in Akoko Edo with this number of personnel here.”
He further urged the security corps to complement the efforts of the state government in combating kidnapping and cultism by remaining committed to their duties.
Also speaking, the Chairman of the Screening Committee and Secretary to the Local Government, Topa Okomayin, criticised what he described as the nonchalant attitude of some personnel of the Edo State Security Corps in the area, urging them to show greater commitment and dedication to their responsibilities.
