A researcher and financial consultant, Oriri Stephen Edeh, has called for the restoration of peace in Utonkon also known as Ufia in Ado local government area of Benue State following a wave of insecurity in the community.
Edeh in a message sent to LEADERSHIP said the community once celebrated for its peaceful nature and freedom is now under the shadow of fear due to kidnapping, banditry, and other forms of violence threatening peaceful coexistence of the people.
He lamented that, “Gone are the days when residents could venture into their farms without fear, or when children could play freely under the evening sky. Today, the streets are overshadowed by the specter of criminal activities that threaten the very fabric of community life. The recent abduction of 20 medical students, en route to a convention, starkly illustrates the perilous environment that has overtaken Utonkon.”
He, however, commended the rescue operation by the Nigerian Military and the Nigerian Police Force for the successful rescue of the students from the clutches of bandits in Ajide forest, and called on the Federal Government of Nigeria to sustain efforts to avert recurrent situations.
“The security challenges facing our people, the Utonkon Community and the entire Ado Local Government Area are not isolated; they reflect a broader issue that demands concerted intervention at local, state, and national levels. The role of security agencies, particularly the Nigerian Police, cannot be overstated in this endeavor. Their continued vigilance and proactive measures are crucial in safeguarding lives and restoring normalcy to communities grappling with insecurity across the Nation.
“However, beyond commending efforts of the security agencies, it is crucial that all stakeholders, government authorities, community leaders, and citizens collaborate effectively. Initiatives aimed at enhancing community policing, improving intelligence gathering, and supporting affected families must be prioritized. Moreover, sustainable strategies for economic empowerment and youth engagement should be pursued to address the underlying socio-economic factors contributing to insecurity.”
Edeh maintained that the plight of Utonkon and several other communities and individuals suffering insecurity challenges across the nation serves as a poignant reminder of the urgent need for collective action against insecurity in Nigeria.
According to him, supporting security agencies, advocating for robust policy measures, and fostering community resilience, will pave the way for a safer and more prosperous future. “It is imperative that we answer this call to action, ensuring that peace and security once again reign in Utonkon, Ado, Benue State and beyond.”