Council Chairman and Vigilantes Foil Kidnap Attempt in Makeke Leteju Community

Published on 27 March 2026 at 10:45

Reported by: Oahimire Omone Precious | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.

Residents of Makeke Leteju Community in Akoko‑Edo Local Government Area, Edo State, have experienced renewed relief after a kidnapping attempt was successfully foiled by local leadership and security operatives. The swift intervention resulted in the safe recovery of Mr. Olorunda Amos and his family, who had been targeted near the Makeke forest, an area previously associated with security concerns.

Eyewitnesses reported that the family was ambushed along a bush path, prompting immediate action from local authorities. Upon receiving credible intelligence about the incident, Rt. Hon. Alabi Bliss Oshionogue, Chairman of the Akoko‑Edo Local Government Council, mobilized members of the Edo State Security Network along with community vigilantes. The team quickly moved into the forest, confronting the assailants and securing the release of the victims unharmed. The kidnappers reportedly fled upon encountering the security operatives.

Chairman Oshionogue commended the courage and dedication of the security personnel and vigilantes involved in the operation. He emphasized that proactive community engagement and timely intelligence were crucial to the successful outcome. He urged residents to maintain vigilance, report suspicious activities, and recognize that security is a shared responsibility.

The chairman highlighted that the operation aligns with the broader SHINE Agenda of Senator Monday Okpebholo’s administration, which prioritizes security, health, infrastructure, and community empowerment. He reaffirmed the council’s commitment to ensuring safety across Akoko‑Edo through continued collaboration with the state government and local security networks.

This successful intervention comes amid a broader pattern of abductions in the area. In previous months, several residents along rural corridors of Akoko‑Edo were abducted, some of whom were later released following negotiations. The recurrence of such incidents has heightened the importance of coordinated response between local authorities, law enforcement, and community members.

Local residents and community leaders have expressed support for stronger neighborhood vigilance systems, formalized community watches, and closer collaboration with security agencies. They stress that early warning and information sharing are key to preventing attacks in isolated and forested areas.

The Makeke Leteju rescue highlights the effectiveness of rapid response and community cooperation in countering insecurity. It also underscores the ongoing challenges faced by rural communities in forested regions, where criminal elements may exploit terrain for concealment and operational advantage.

Following the operation, public relations officers and local authorities have reiterated the need for residents to remain alert and actively participate in community safety initiatives. They emphasize that consistent vigilance and collaboration with security forces are vital to deterring future criminal activity and protecting lives.

For the people of Makeke Leteju and surrounding villages, the safe return of Mr. Amos and his family serves as both a relief and a reminder of the critical role of local leadership and community action in maintaining security. The council has pledged to continue strengthening vigilance networks and ensuring the safety of residents across the local government area.

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