Hon. Silas Akoji Urges Igala People to Act Now Over Kidnappings on Itobe-Ayangba Road

By Victor Idajil

Hon. Silas Akoji has called on all Igala sons and daughters to come together and take urgent action to stop the wave of kidnappings and killings along the Itobe-Ayangba road in Kogi East.

 Akoji described the attacks as barbaric and unacceptable, saying the violence has claimed innocent lives, left families traumatized, and disrupted business and movement in the area.

“Enough is enough. As Igala sons and daughters, we have a collective responsibility to rise and put an end to this menace. We can no longer wait while our people are being abducted and murdered on a road that links our communities,” he said.

To tackle the problem, Akoji suggested two immediate steps.

First, he wants the government and community stakeholders to set up and equip a Kogi East Security Watch. The group, he said, should carry out regular patrols and surveillance on the Itobe-Ayangba corridor to serve as an early warning system and first line of defense for travelers.

Second, he called for the clearing of bushes and shrubs at least 30 meters on both sides of the road. According to him, removing the vegetation will take away hiding spots for criminals and make the road safer for commuters and security operatives.

“If these two measures are implemented urgently, they will go a long way in reducing, if not completely ending, the kidnappings and killings on this corridor,” Akoji stated.

He urged Igala people at home and in the diaspora to unite, contribute resources, and use their influence to push for quick action on the proposals.

“The time to act is now. The blood of our people cries out for justice and protection,” he added, praying for God’s protection over Igala land and its people.