Concerns as Otukpo-Ugbokolo road turns den of kidnappers

Residents and travelers traversing the Otukpo-Ugbokolo-Otukpa-Enugu road now grapple with an insidious fear, born from the haunting presence of the men of the underworld that have effectively transformed this once-bustling highway into a kidnapper’s den.

“The shadows of fear now loom large on this road; we live in a constant state of anxiety, not knowing what the day may bring,” expresses a worried local resident, capturing the prevailing sentiment of the community.

IDOMA VOICE reports that In the recent wave of abductions, the former education Secretary of Ogbadibo Local Government Area in Benue State, Mr. Sunday Ajeh, became the unfortunate victim.

Tragically, the region has witnessed a concerning pattern of kidnappings and killings along this vital route connecting the north to the east. Between 2021 and 2023, over 50 individuals have fallen victim to these criminals. The road, a major gateway from the north to the east, has left residents and natives of Ogbadibo, Okpokwu, and neighboring towns in a constant state of dread.

He was ambushed on a Wednesday evening while returning home after attending a colleague’s burial at the nearby Ipole Otukpa village.

Last week’s brazen abduction of multiple passengers on the Otukpo-Ugbokolo Enugu expressway shocked the nation.

Eyewitness accounts reveal that these criminals, previously active mainly during the night, have now become emboldened, operating freely in broad daylight without any challenge from security forces. Fears are escalating, prompting a local commercial driver to urge state security agencies to take immediate action and restore a sense of safety to travelers.

One of the identified hotspots for these abductions is Ugbokolo, the location of the Benue State Polytechnic. The deteriorating security situation has driven some drivers, like Alfred Adejoh, to cease using the road until safety is reinstated.

“The boldness of these criminals is a stark reflection of the breakdown of law and order. We need urgent intervention to reclaim our highways and restore a sense of safety,” implores a concerned citizen, Ameh Ugwu, emphasizing the need for immediate action.

This distressing pattern of abductions and killings has plagued the region for a significant period, claiming the lives of over 50 individuals between 2021 and 2023. The Otukpo-Ugbokolo road, a vital artery connecting the north to the east, has now become a perilous journey that terrifies both residents and travelers alike.

“The fear is paralyzing. I’ve had to halt my travels along this route indefinitely until something is done to tackle this dire situation,” says Alfred Adejoh, a local driver, reflecting the widespread despair that has gripped the community.

Proposed Solutions from Stakeholders:
Seeking a path to safety, the Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) urges the Federal Government to act decisively. “Establishing a national guard, composed of specialized forces from our armed services, dedicated to safeguarding our highways, is an imperative step towards securing our nation,” advocates a representative from HURIWA.

Additionally, the police have initiated efforts to combat the criminal elements on the Aliade-Otukpo-Enugu road. Several suspects belonging to a notorious gang known for robbing motorists on this route have been apprehended.

“Law enforcement agencies are doing their best, but it’s clear that a holistic approach involving various sectors is needed to effectively stem this tide of criminality on our roads,” says a police source, acknowledging the collaborative effort required to tackle this grave issue.