By William Emily l Date: May 8, 2026
Residents of several rural communities in Edo State have raised alarm over worsening insecurity and frequent kidnappings that they say have made farming and daily movement increasingly dangerous. Villagers told local media that armed kidnappers now operate freely in forests, bushes, and along major roads, forcing many residents to abandon farms and live in constant fear.
According to community members interviewed by Sahara Reporters, farmers in affected areas said they could no longer safely access farmlands because kidnappers had effectively taken control of many rural routes and forested areas. Residents claimed that several victims had either been abducted while traveling or attacked on farms in recent months.
One villager reportedly lamented that life in the communities had become unbearable, saying residents now fear going to farms, markets, or neighboring villages without risking abduction. The growing insecurity has reportedly disrupted farming activities and local economic life across several communities in Edo State.
The complaints come amid a broader security crisis affecting parts of southern Nigeria, where kidnapping for ransom has continued to spread beyond traditional conflict zones into rural farming communities and highways. Edo State has witnessed repeated reports of abductions, armed attacks, and violent crimes in recent months.
Earlier this month, Sahara Reporters also documented attacks by masked gunmen on another Edo community, where residents reportedly fled into surrounding bushes after armed men invaded the area. Witnesses described scenes of panic as women, children, and elderly residents abandoned homes during the attack.
Security operatives in Edo State have meanwhile intensified operations targeting suspected kidnappers’ hideouts. Local reports indicate that police and special task force units recently raided forest camps and criminal hideouts in parts of the state as authorities attempt to curb rising abductions.
Despite these efforts, many residents insist security responses remain inadequate. Community leaders reportedly accused authorities of reacting slowly to distress calls and failing to maintain consistent security patrols in vulnerable rural areas.
Kidnapping has become one of Nigeria’s most pressing security challenges, with criminal gangs increasingly targeting travelers, farmers, students, and traditional rulers for ransom payments. Analysts warn that insecurity in farming communities could worsen food shortages and deepen economic hardship if farmers continue abandoning agricultural activities.
Residents in affected Edo communities are now calling on the Federal Government and security agencies to deploy more personnel, establish permanent security checkpoints, and clear forests allegedly being used by kidnappers as operational bases.