Fear Replaces Farming as Kidnappings Turn Delta Community Into a Danger Zone
Residents of Oghara Kingdom in Ethiope West Local Government Area of Delta State say worsening insecurity has transformed once-busy farm roads into deadly routes, with many farmers now abandoning their farmlands over fears of kidnapping and violent attacks.
Community leaders warn that travelling to harvest crops, particularly cassava, has become a life-threatening risk as criminal gangs continue to target residents and commuters.
The renewed alarm follows a series of kidnappings and killings recorded in recent months, including the abduction of a husband and wife along the Otefe-Ovade Link Road on June 25. While the wife was later released after a ransom was paid, her husband was reportedly killed by the abductors. Community records compiled by the Oghara Study Group (OSG) indicate that similar attacks have occurred across Oghareki and Ogharefe communities this year, leaving several victims dead, others released after ransom payments, and many families traumatised.
The worsening security situation has disrupted farming, business activities and education in the kingdom. Oghara, home to major institutions including Delta State University Teaching Hospital (DELSUTH), Delta State Polytechnic, Otefe-Oghara, and Western Delta University, has witnessed repeated attacks that have left residents living in fear. Community leaders say many farmers no longer feel safe cultivating their land, while businesses and travellers have become increasingly vulnerable to criminal gangs operating along strategic roads.
Concerned stakeholders have criticised what they describe as inadequate security responses, urging the Federal Government, Delta State Government and security agencies to strengthen operations in the area. The Oghara Study Group has called for increased deployment of security personnel, better intelligence gathering, support for community vigilantes and stronger collaboration with traditional institutions to dismantle criminal networks responsible for the attacks.
In response to growing public concern, Delta State Commissioner of Police Olufemi Oyeniyi recently met with the Ovie of Oghara Kingdom, community leaders and other stakeholders to discuss strategies for tackling kidnappings, cultism and related crimes. While authorities have pledged closer collaboration and improved intelligence sharing, residents insist urgent action is needed to restore confidence and allow them to return safely to their farms, businesses and daily lives.
