The coordinator of the global Esan community, Aigbokhan Oseremen, attributed the increasing insecurity in parts of Edo State to the activities of suspected criminals operating from forest camps.
In an interview with Channels Television’s “The Morning Brief,” Oseremen explained that the current security problems did not arise suddenly but are the result of a gradual development. He claimed that some herders, whom he identified as Fulani, had left the village outskirts to settle in camps deep in the forest.
According to him, these camps are large and house families, making it difficult for security forces and local communities to monitor forestry operations. He added that members of the Esan community have repeatedly encountered such camps while traveling in the surrounding bushland.
Oseremen explained that the situation first became noticeable in Uromi, where awareness campaigns and the intervention of local self-defense groups helped to reduce the number of incidents. However, he expressed concern about the problem spreading to other areas.
He noted a sharp increase in kidnappings in Ekpoma, describing it as a growing trend. He stated that another kidnapping was reported in the town shortly after a protest against insecurity.
Oseremen called for urgent action to address the situation and emphasized the need for coordinated efforts to combat insecurity and restore safety throughout Esanland and other affected areas of Edo State.
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