CITIZENS COMPASS—The Nigerians in Diaspora Organisation (NIDO) African Continental, on Thursday, raised the alarm over the spate of kidnappings and armed banditry across Edo State.
The Group raised the alarm in a statement signed by its Secretary-General, Sir JP Hamzaosa Ode-Idahosa.
NIDO African Continental called on the state government to nip this in the bud.
The statement was titled, “NIDO African Continental calls for urgent action against insecurity in Edo State,”
It reads, “Sir JP Hamzaosa Ode-Idahosa has called on the Edo State Government to urgently take appropriate and decisive measures to combat the growing menace of kidnapping and armed banditry across the state.
“Speaking on the rising wave of insecurity, he described kidnapping as a serious threat to peace, progress, and prosperity in Edo State. He lamented that the criminal activities of kidnappers and armed groups are driving away both local and foreign investors, thereby slowing down the state’s economic growth.
“According to him, No investor will be willing to put resources into a location that is not safe. For Edo State to attract and retain investments, security must be treated as a top priority.
“He emphasized that security is the foundation of development, stressing that when people and businesses feel secure, investments, job creation, and social development naturally follow.
“To address the challenge, Hon. Ode-Idahosa called for a multi-layered security approach involving both the government and the communities. He proposed the following measures:
“Improved Intelligence Gathering: Security personnel and community leaders should work hand in hand to share information and identify criminal hideouts.
“Procurement of Security Drums: To enhance communication and early warning systems in local communities.
“Widespread Use of Security Cameras: All landlords should be encouraged to install CCTV cameras in their homes, while the government should mount surveillance cameras along major highways, streets, and key towns across the state.
Stronger Community-Government Collaboration
“Citizens should be mobilized to play active roles in safeguarding their environments through vigilance groups and neighborhood watch programs.
He concluded by urging the government to act swiftly, stressing that the fight against kidnapping and armed banditry requires urgent, coordinated, and sustained efforts.
“Edo State cannot thrive under the shadow of fear. If we must protect our future and attract meaningful investment, then we must win the war against insecurity now, he said.”
