Residents of Etche in Rivers State have cried out to the government and law enforcement agencies to save them from the menace of herdsmen.
The people bared their minds during an interactive session with the combined team of security agencies led by the state commissioner of police, Mr. Olatunji Disu at Okehi, headquarters of Etche LGA on Wednesday.
At the interaction which was attended by traditional rulers, chiefs, elders, women and youths, the Administrator of Etche LGA, Hon. Onyenachi Nwankwor, expressed deep concern over rising criminality, land disputes, and herdsmen invasions, which have made farming and movement unsafe.
Silas Anyanwu, President-General of Ogbakor Etche, lamented that residents now “sleep with one eye open” due to herdsmen attacks, citing an incident where an Apara man was assaulted for refusing to pay a N6,000 fee to access his farmland.
Chief Joseph Amaechi on his part, criticized the repeated absence of Miyetti Allah leadership at security meetings, calling it a deliberate slight.
Other challenges the people highlighted include, dearth of health facilities, unemployment and infrastructural decay.
The National Youth Council of Nigeria (Etche Chapter) and other youth leaders highlighted widespread joblessness, drug abuse, and the urgent need for skills acquisition programs.
A youth representative warned that without government intervention in employment and security, the community might resort to self-help.
Responding, the Commissioner of Police, Mr. Olatunji Disu, reiterated that security is a collective responsibility and urged the community to establish internal security measures while collaborating with law enforcement.
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The CP assured that the police would intensify surveillance and engage with relevant stakeholders, including Miyetti Allah, to address the menace.
He assured that the Rivers State Government will prioritize the revitalization of healthcare, education, and economic projects in Etche, while urging
residents to report security breaches promptly and work closely with security agencies.
The Administrator of Etche LGA, Hon. Onyenachi Nwankwor, reaffirmed the community’s commitment to supporting security efforts but appealed for urgent government intervention to restore peace and development.
“We know the criminals, and they are our children. We need jobs, better healthcare, and security to give them a better path,” he stated.
