Edjekota Community in the Ughelli North Local Government Area of Delta State is currently gripped by fear following recurring assaults by suspected armed herdsmen. Pastor Oghenemakpo Uyo, the community President-General, reported that the area has been targeted multiple times recently.
During the most recent encounter, a resident was intercepted while traveling home on the Oviri-Ogor/Edjekota-Ogor Road. The attackers attempted to abduct the man, who was carrying supplies for his infant. After he resisted, the group assaulted him with machetes and gunfire, causing severe injuries. Vigilantes responded to the scene, forcing the three suspects to flee into the forest and leave behind various items, including ammunition.
The injured man is currently hospitalized. He stated that his attackers conversed in the Fulfulde language. Subsequently, members of the community apprehended another group of suspected herdsmen near the same forest and handed them over to the A Division Police in Ughelli with recovered weapons. Additionally, reports indicate that Tantita Security Services staff avoided an ambush in the same vicinity.
Local figures like Hon. Obakpororo Johnny are urging both state and federal authorities to heighten security to prevent further violence. The ongoing threat has disrupted local farming and restricted the daily movements of residents. Official comments from the Delta State Police Command remain pending as spokesperson Bright Edafe has not responded to inquiries.
