Reported by: Oahimire Omone Precious | Edited by: Pierre Antoine
Suspected kidnappers have killed a 50-year-old community leader, Chief Jimoh Jacob Ogbie, and abducted his 23-year-old daughter, Nene Jacob, along with another young woman believed to be her friend, in a violent attack on Idoa Community in Esan West Local Government Area of Edo State.
The incident occurred late Monday night, sending shockwaves through the agrarian community and heightening fears over persistent insecurity in parts of southern Nigeria. Residents reported that the gunmen stormed the residence of the deceased under the cover of darkness, firing gunshots that immediately drew attention from nearby households.
According to accounts from family members, the attackers shot Chief Ogbie at close range, killing him on the spot. His wife was reportedly assaulted with machetes and other dangerous weapons during the attack and left with severe injuries. She is said to be receiving medical attention at an undisclosed health facility.
One of the deceased’s sons, Lucky Ogbie, said he was not at home when the attack occurred. He explained that he had stepped out briefly to make a purchase when he received a distress call informing him that gunmen had invaded their home. On his return, he found his father lifeless and his mother critically injured.
Community sources described Chief Ogbie as a respected figure who had played an active role in local affairs. His killing has intensified anxiety among residents, many of whom say the area has experienced intermittent security challenges in recent months.
The traditional ruler of the community, HRH Alhaji Amedu Momoh, confirmed the attack and appealed to the Edo State Government and security agencies for urgent intervention. He stated that about four armed men were involved in the operation and that they executed the attack swiftly before fleeing with the two young women.
He noted that security operatives, including personnel from the police and other agencies, have visited the community since the incident. However, he stressed the need for reinforced presence and sustained patrols to deter further attacks. According to him, while some security measures had previously been in place, there are concerns that criminal elements may have reorganized and intensified their activities.
Authorities have not yet released an official statement detailing arrests or identifying suspects. However, security operatives are said to have launched coordinated search and rescue operations across nearby forests and bush paths believed to serve as hideouts for criminal groups. Bush-combing exercises are ongoing as law enforcement agencies attempt to locate the abducted women and apprehend the perpetrators.
Kidnapping for ransom has remained a persistent threat across various parts of Nigeria, affecting both rural and urban communities. While Edo State is not traditionally considered among the most volatile regions, recent incidents have prompted calls for stronger community policing frameworks and intelligence-sharing mechanisms between residents and law enforcement.
Security analysts say rural communities are often vulnerable due to limited surveillance infrastructure and sparse security deployments. The absence of rapid response units in remote areas can delay intervention during attacks, allowing perpetrators to escape into difficult terrain.
Local residents in Idoa Community have expressed fear and frustration, urging authorities to act decisively. Some community members said the attack underscores the need for improved early warning systems and structured collaboration between vigilante groups and formal security agencies.
The Edo State Government has yet to issue a comprehensive response, but officials are expected to assess the security situation and consider additional deployments if necessary. Civil society groups in the region have also called for psychological support for the bereaved family and affected community members.
As search operations continue, attention remains focused on the safe return of Nene Jacob and her friend. Families of abducted victims in similar cases often endure prolonged negotiations and uncertainty, making swift intervention critical.
The killing of Chief Ogbie adds to growing concerns about the safety of traditional and community leaders, who in some cases become targets due to their visibility and influence. Security experts emphasize the importance of targeted intelligence efforts to dismantle criminal networks operating within forest corridors and rural settlements.
For now, residents of Idoa Community remain on edge, mourning the loss of a local leader while awaiting news about the fate of the abducted women. Authorities have urged members of the public to provide any credible information that could assist in ongoing investigations.
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