Criminals Wreak havoc in Okpella Community

Concerned stakeholders of Ukhomunyio Community in Okpella, Etsako East Local Government Area of Edo State, have appealed to the Edo State Government and security agencies to urgently address the worsening security situation in the area following recent incidents of killings, kidnappings, and violent attacks.

In a statement jointly issued on Thursday by Sam S.O. Afemikhe, Dr. Henry Idogun, Roland Ediawe, Kasimu Sunday, Mark Adogah, Omoreige Usman, Prince Haruna Ahmed, Friday Ododeh, and Dr. Victor Balogun, the stakeholders lamented what they described as a disturbing rise in insecurity that has disrupted the once peaceful atmosphere of the community.

The group alleged that within the last few weeks, two residents, Andrew Ilabeshi of Kalaba Village and Engr. Ichaba Dennis of Imioko Village, were attacked and killed in their homes by suspected gunmen. Their children, according to the statement, were abducted and later released after ransom payments were made.

The stakeholders condemned the incidents, describing them as barbaric and completely alien to the long-standing peaceful tradition of Ukhomunyio Community.

They warned that if urgent steps were not taken to restore peace and security, the situation could negatively affect major industries operating within the area, including BUA Cement and Dangote Industries.

The statement also expressed concern over violence that reportedly occurred during the annual Olimi Festival celebration last weekend, alleging that some youths unlawfully used firearms during the event.

According to the stakeholders, the violence led to the death of one Aliu Dickson from Imirekhe, who was reportedly shot dead in the early hours of April 16, 2026, while several others sustained gunshot injuries and are receiving treatment in various hospitals.

The group described the development as unfortunate, noting that the Olimi Festival had always symbolized peace, unity, and cultural heritage among the people of Ukhomunyio and the larger Okpella community.

While sympathizing with families of the victims, the stakeholders also raised concerns over what they termed indiscriminate arrests and detention of youths from Imioko Village, warning that such actions could further escalate tensions within the community.

They called on the Edo State Government and security agencies to strengthen security presence in the area, conduct impartial investigations into the killings and kidnappings, ensure fairness in arrests and investigations, and prevent any breakdown of law and order.

The stakeholders further urged indigenes of Ukhomunyio Community at home and abroad to unite in the collective effort to restore peace and security.

As part of efforts to support investigations, the group announced a reward of N1 million for credible information leading to the arrest and prosecution of those responsible for the recent killings and kidnappings in the community.

Another N1 million reward was also announced for information leading to the arrest of persons responsible for the violence and shootings recorded during the recent Olimi Festival celebration.