Residents and indigenes of Auchi and surrounding communities in Etsako West Local Government Area of Edo State have raised serious concerns over the growing wave of kidnappings and killings in the area, calling for urgent intervention from the Federal Government and security agencies.
In an open letter addressed to President Bola Tinubu and top military authorities, the group, identified as Concerned Residents and Youths of Auchi Sacred Kingdom, expressed deep fear and frustration over what they described as persistent insecurity threatening their lives and livelihoods.
The appeal, signed by Abdul Maleeq, was also copied to the Minister of Defence, the Chief of Defence Staff, and Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo.
According to the residents, the latest incident occurred on April 19, when a young man named Christopher was killed, while a woman who was with him was abducted and remains in captivity.
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They noted that the attack took place near the Fertiliser Checkpoint along Auchi-Igarra Road an area reportedly prone to repeated kidnapping incidents despite the presence of security personnel.
The community further lamented that the Igbira Camp axis, located just a few kilometres from the Nigerian Army School of Mechanical Engineering, has become a hotspot for criminal activities, with kidnappers allegedly operating without restraint.
In the letter, the residents accused security operatives at the checkpoint of negligence, alleging that a previous intelligence-led attempt by local vigilantes and hunters to apprehend suspected kidnappers was delayed by soldiers, allowing the suspects to escape.
They stressed that while the military has conducted broader operations in the region, such efforts have not translated into immediate protection or rapid response in critical areas like the Fertiliser Junction.
The community called for intensified security presence, improved coordination with local vigilantes, and swift action to restore safety and public confidence in the area.
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