Fear and outrage have gripped Delta State following the gruesome murder of a female land agent, Esther Osaze, allegedly at the hands of kidnappers linked to Fulani herders. The rising wave of abductions in parts of the state has sparked fresh concerns, with Harrison Gwamnishu, the Senior Special Assistant on Civil Society and Youth Mobilization to the Delta State Governor, calling for urgent action.
Gwamnishu, in multiple Facebook posts, condemned the increasing cases of kidnapping, particularly in Ibusa, Ogwashi, Azagba, Issele-Azagba, and Ubulu-Uku. His outcry comes after the tragic discovery of Esther’s lifeless body on Wednesday, two days after she was abducted. Reports indicate that she was kidnapped on Monday while returning from an estate site inspection near the Nigerian Admiralty University, Ibusa, alongside three colleagues.
According to sources, gunmen ambushed the group, taking them hostage. While details remain unclear, Esther did not make it out alive, and her remains were later found in the Ibusa community, Oshimili North Local Government Area. Other abducted victims are still in captivity, as their families struggle to meet the ransom demands.
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Expressing grief over her death, Gwamnishu urged the authorities and the public to take the security crisis seriously. He emphasized that the region has become a hotbed for kidnappers, making it unsafe for real estate professionals and land buyers.
“Esther was tragically killed by kidnappers who have been operating in Ibusa, Ogwashi, Azagba, Issele-Azagba, and Ubulu-Uku for months,” he lamented. “There are still others in captivity because their families cannot afford the huge ransoms being demanded.”
While appreciating the efforts of local government chairmen in mobilizing vigilante groups, he stressed the need for more proactive measures to curb the menace. He also warned potential land buyers to be cautious when dealing with estate agents in certain areas, as kidnappings have become rampant in these locations.
“The world should know that some Fulani kidnappers have surrounded Aniocha/Oshimili and other parts of Delta State,” he said. “Before you follow anyone into the bush for land inspection, ensure there is adequate security. If security is not guaranteed, don’t go!”
With rising fears and growing calls for intervention, residents and stakeholders are urging security agencies to intensify operations and rid the state of criminal elements terrorizing innocent citizens.
