The Ayetoro-Kiri community in Kabba-Bunu Local Government Area of Kogi State has been thrown into deep grief and despair following persistent bandit attacks, alleged official negligence and worsening insecurity in Bunu land.
This was disclosed in a statement signed by the community’s spokesperson, Mr. David Amupitan, and made available to journalists on Saturday in Lokoja.
According to the statement, scores of residents were abducted by bandits, and despite painful ransom payments raised through communal contributions, only seven victims were released. Of those freed, three reportedly died on arrival, while four others are currently battling for their lives in critical condition at various medical facilities.
Amupitan added that about 30 residents are still being held in the kidnappers’ den, heightening fears over their safety and survival.
He described the situation as a tragic reflection of the failure of security governance in the area, alleging that authorities at the Kabba-Bunu Local Government Council turned against innocent residents who staged a peaceful protest to draw attention to their plight.
The statement further alleged that officials of the local government council and security agencies, rather than protecting vulnerable communities, responded by tear-gassing and arresting peaceful protesters who were demanding safety, justice and the rescue of their abducted relatives.
“It is both ironic and unacceptable that a government entrusted with the protection of lives and property would criminalise peaceful protest, while allowing bandits to roam freely, killing, kidnapping and terrorising law-abiding citizens,” the statement said.
“Our people are tired of burying loved ones, tired of selling properties and contributing scarce resources to pay ransom, and tired of living under perpetual fear while those in authority remain indifferent.”
The community therefore issued an urgent appeal to the Federal Government, security agencies and relevant authorities to intervene decisively in Ayetoro-Kiri and the entire Bunu district.
Amupitan demanded immediate action to rescue those still in captivity, restore security to the area and hold accountable all officials alleged to have enabled or ignored what he described as a growing humanitarian tragedy.
