In a tragic incident in Emuhu community, near Agbor in Ika South Local Government Area of Delta State, armed assailants kidnapped two palm-wine tappers on Thursday and executed one after the victim’s family unable to raise the demanded ransom offered just ₦10,000 for his release.
The victims were known locally for their early-morning ritual of venturing deep into the forest to tap palm wine when they were ambushed by a terror gang reported to have been operating across rural communities in Delta and neighbouring Edo State.
Concerns erupted in Emuhu when word reached locals of the abduction, prompting immediate mobilisation: troops from the 63 Brigade, the Emuhu Vigilante Group, Anti-Cult Abavo, Operation Soup, and police units joined forces to launch a wide-ranging search. The operation extended from Emuhu through Abavo and Obi-Ayama, penetrating into the dense Urhonigbe forest in Edo State, where the survivors were eventually found.
When rescued, the surviving victim lay weak, dehydrated, and trembling, pleading for water as he struggled to recount the horrifying ordeal. According to his account, the kidnappers had accused the abducted man’s family of offering “an insultingly small ransom,” and executed him on the spot — abandoning the other victim in the forest.
Security expert Zagazola Makama described the incident as a grim illustration of the growing vulnerability of rural Nigerians, especially in areas where militant groups roam with impunity. He warned that such kidnappings and summary executions are becoming disturbingly common where poverty and lack of security converge.
The rescued man is now receiving medical treatment. Meanwhile, coordinated security operations remain in full swing as authorities hunt the perpetrators. The community and local vigilante groups have renewed calls for sustained deployment of security forces to protect vulnerable rural populations, particularly palm-wine tappers, farmers, and forest-workers.
This latest tragedy further spotlights the ongoing insecurity in Delta State and surrounding regions — and renews calls by lawmakers and security stakeholders for urgent nationwide action. Dalena Reporters will continue to monitor developments and report on rescue efforts, arrests, and measures taken to safeguard rural dwellers.