My father was born in Enugu Ogbayaga, a quiet community under Akpanya Ward in Igala Mela Local Government Area, Kogi State. He raised 10 children there—us—all of whom grew up in peace, went to university, and chased dreams beyond the village.
For decades, Enugu Ogbayaga was a place of harmony, where farmers worked the land without fear.
But just four days ago, everything changed. A ruthless gang of kidnappers stormed the village. They shot and butchered innocent farmers, our people.
The once-thriving fields are now abandoned. The farmers fled, terrified for their lives.
Security forces came, army and police, searching the bushes, but no arrests. The attackers? A group of 12 Fulani men, according to a survivor who was shot over 15 times yet lived, thanks to the local charm, “odi eshi,” believed to protect them.
This is a crisis that demands urgent attention.
We call on the Igalamela Local Government, Akpanya Police, and Kogi State Government to act NOW. Protect the 500+ farmers who feed the community and the nation.
Because when our farmers are unsafe, we all suffer.
– Audu Oseni wrote from Abuja.
