By Peter Omopo
Residents of Isua-Akoko in Akoko South East Local Government Area of Ondo State have staged a protest over a surge in killings and abductions in the agrarian community.
The protesters, who trooped out in large numbers, expressed frustration over the growing insecurity, saying the persistent attacks have created fear and disrupted economic activities, particularly farming.
The Youth President of Akoko South East Local Government Area, Umoru Kamoru, said the wave of violence has severely affected livelihoods in the area and called on the state government to urgently deploy more security personnel to restore peace. He warned that the situation was rapidly worsening.
Also speaking during the protest, the Youth President of Isua-Akoko, Abimbola Oluwafemi, appealed to security agencies to intensify efforts in addressing the crisis. He said the recent killing of a youth leader, reportedly murdered after ransom had been paid, triggered the demonstration.
The protest comes amid a series of security incidents in parts of Ondo State. Residents of Liberty Avenue in the Iluabo and Ajegunle areas of Akure North Local Government Area recently demonstrated following an attack by suspected kidnappers.
In that incident, about six armed men reportedly stormed the community, opening fire on residents. A man identified as John Ofuduwa sustained a gunshot injury, while a woman, Oladeinde Tomilola, was abducted and taken to an unknown destination.
Residents have continued to call on the government and security agencies to take decisive action to curb the rising insecurity in the state.
