A sociocultural Group, Okun Development Association (ODA) says residents six Local Government Areas in the Yoruba speaking part of Kogi State are now living in fear and experiencing disruption in economic activities due to upsurge in insecurity.
The statement is coming after Oba James Dada Ogunyanda, the traditional ruler of Okoloke in Yagba West Local Government Area, was kidnapped and three other person abducted three days later from the same community.
President General of ODA, Amb. Rotimi Akenson, while addressing newsmen said the recent increase in security challenges have created fear and uncertainty among the people of Okun land.
He said, “The recent surge in terrorist attacks, kidnappings, killings and other security threats across the six Local Government Areas of Kogi State that comprise Okun Land has created an atmosphere of fear and uncertainty.”;;
According to him, the attacks have affected the socioeconomic activities of the people, with farmlands and markets deserted.
“The impact of these developments on our socio-economic activities cannot be overstated. Our markets are deserted, our farms are untended, and our businesses are struggling to stay afloat. The situation demands urgent attention and collective action,”;; he said.
While acknowledging the efforts of security agencies, including the military and police, who have been working to combat the threats, he said more efforts ought to be made.
“Their bravery and dedication are commendable, and we appreciate the sacrifices they make to keep us safe. However, we also recognize the crucial role that community-led initiatives play in addressing security challenges.
“Our hunters and vigilante groups have been instrumental in providing support to the security agencies and helping to maintain peace in our communities. We commend their efforts and call for greater collaboration between these groups and the security agencies.
“As part of ongoing efforts by the Okun Development Association (ODA) to address the alarming security situation in Okunland, the Security Implementation Committee set up following the Okun Security Summit in March 2025, met in Abuja over the weekend to address the situation.
“The meeting received reports of the persistent security breaches and challenges in Okunland; the most recent being the kidnapping of the Traditional Ruler of Okoleke, Yagba West Local Government Area of Kogi State Oba Dada James Ogunyanda, the Obalohun of Okololeke and the barbaric murder of three (3) local hunters in their bid to secure the release of the revered Monarch,”;; he added.
The President General added that to demonstrate the commitment of the Sociocultural body, “the ODA has therefore decided to take some IMMEDIATE Actions that are within the competence of the Security Committee and the Okun Development Association to bolster the security of the people of Okunland”;;.
The actions he noted include mobilizing hunters and vigilantes into the bush to rescue the traditional ruler; providing financial assistance to all Okun hunters that died in the line of duty and purchase of insurance policies for four years for all Okun hunters involved in the operation in Okun land.
Others are health insurance for Okun hunters and vigilantes to cater for financial needs arising from operational hazards relating to their duties; profiling of residents across Okun communities through the office of traditional rulers as well as collaboration with the government and the law enforcement agencies to find sustainable solutions to the security challenges.
