Imoga Residents Demand Permanent Security Base As Insecurity Threatens Farming Activities
The Imoga community in Akoko-Edo Local Government Area of Edo State has appealed to Governor Monday Okpebholo to urgently intervene following the alleged killing of one of its residents, Monday Obanigba, by suspected herders.
In a protest letter dated July 20, 2026, and signed by Jeffery Obasanmi, the community called on the Edo State Government and security agencies to take immediate action to address the worsening security situation in the area.
According to the residents, the latest incident is part of a growing pattern of violent attacks that has continued to endanger lives and property, while preventing many farmers from accessing their farmlands, thereby threatening livelihoods and food security.
The community noted that Imoga’s location, which shares extensive boundaries with Kogi State and Ondo State, has made it vulnerable to cross-border criminal activities and the movement of armed attackers.
While acknowledging efforts already made by the Edo State Government and the Akoko-Edo Local Government Council to improve security, the community appealed for the establishment of a permanent security base in Imoga to provide a sustained security presence.
The residents also called for stronger collaboration among security agencies in Edo, Kogi and Ondo states to effectively tackle cross-border crimes and protect lives and property.
Reacting to the development, the Chairman of Akoko-Edo Local Government Area, Alabi Oshionogue, described the killing as unfortunate and directed members of the Edo State Security Corps to intensify efforts in tackling insecurity across the council area.
In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Ajayi Julius, the chairman stressed that with the number of Edo State Security Corps personnel being funded by the local government, incidents of kidnapping and violent crimes should be significantly reduced.
«”I must say that more is expected of us. Security is local, and with the number of Edo State Security Corps being paid by the Council to enhance grassroots security, I do not see any reason we should still be talking about kidnapping in Akoko-Edo with this number of personnel here,” Oshionogue said.»
He urged the security personnel to complement the efforts of the state government in combating kidnapping, cultism and other criminal activities through greater commitment and professionalism.
Also speaking, the Chairman of the Screening Committee and Secretary to the Local Government, Topa Okomayin, criticised what he described as the nonchalant attitude of some members of the Edo State Security Corps, calling on them to demonstrate greater dedication in the discharge of their responsibilities.
The appeal comes amid renewed concerns over insecurity in parts of Akoko-Edo, with residents urging the government and security agencies to take decisive measures to restore peace and protect farming communities.
