Nigeria: Kidnappings spread fear across Edo as victims remain in captivity

By Zuleihat Owuiye, Mamos Nigeria

Residents of Edo State are living in growing fear as kidnappers tighten their grip on communities, highways, and farms. Families, drivers, and travelers say they no longer feel safe, with many describing the situation as a siege.

Two young seminarians kidnapped from Immaculate Conception Minor Seminary in Etsako East have now spent over two months in captivity. In a disturbing video, the abductors forced the boys to display a human skull while demanding ransom for their release.

For the family of Labour Party ward chairman, Asime Olowojoba, the nightmare has lasted even longer. He was kidnapped 143 days ago while traveling to pick up his children. Despite paying millions in ransom, his captors have refused to set him free, instead cutting off communication after collecting money and valuables.

In recent weeks, several passengers have also been seized on highways once considered safe, including Benin–Ifon Road. Families of victims have been forced to raise tens of millions of naira to secure their release. Security agencies admit the criminals, many fleeing from neighboring states, now see Edo as fertile ground.

Fear has deepened further since military checkpoints were withdrawn from some parts of the state. Lawmakers have urged security forces to intensify patrols, repair bad roads where attacks occur, and work more closely with communities. Farmers, meanwhile, are abandoning their fields, saying they can no longer risk being targeted.

The police and army insist they are stepping up joint patrols with neighboring states, combing forests, and deploying new equipment, including drones. Authorities also appeal to the public to share information, stressing that safety is a collective responsibility.

Still, many Edo families live in uncertainty, praying for the safe return of loved ones and for an end to the violence that has unsettled the state.