Residents of communities in Odeda Local Government Area of Ogun State are expressing concern following reports that suspected kidnappers have allegedly sent threat letters warning of planned attacks on school children in parts of the area.
The development comes barely two weeks after a petrol station manager was abducted in Odeda LGA and later released after a ransom was reportedly paid.
Raising the alarm, hunters in the area called on authorities to strengthen local security efforts and collaborate more closely with community-based groups familiar with the terrain.
“About two weeks ago, a petrol station manager was kidnapped in Odeda LGA, Ogun State. He was released after the ransom was paid. The kidnappers have now sent letters to some villages threatening to kidnap school children soon. We, the Odeda hunters, urge the government to support us in working with the police in securing our area. We were born here and know the terrain well,” the Odeda LGA hunters said.
The reports triggered reactions on social media, with many users expressing concern over rising insecurity, while others questioned the government’s response and discussed community-based security measures.
Reacting to the development, Amos Bryan (@Amosbryan005) wrote: “Bro, these are the things I do watch in the movies, it’s actually happening in real life and in my country.”
Another user, Akinz (@AkintuyosiOluw1), commented: “You are urging the government to support you. Support you to stop their boys? You are funny. Get enough weapons to secure your villages. You can only fight alone.”
Mac Demino (@DeminoMac) questioned the public disclosure of security plans, writing: “Na wetin I hate abt my people be this, do you have to always come to the media to expose yourselves or plans?”
MannyMcdonald (@MannyMcdon) said: “The elites should use their money and get weapons so local vigilantes can defend communities. This public announcement about being prepared is not wise.”
PayKash (@Paykash7172) added: “Don’t depend on government, protect your state with everything in you.”
Itamah (@Osas4412) wrote: “Kanu warned you all, but you all laughed at him.”
Larry Micheals (@LarryMicheal01) questioned the effectiveness of local hunters against heavily armed attackers, stating: “They hold local-made guns against herdsmen carrying AKs.”
Jude Milanista Ugiomoh (@jud2006e) similarly argued: “Help and support them because Dane guns cannot stand against RPGs and AK-47s.”
Lola (@Lola126595) warned of wider implications, saying: “Lagos is next. Once they hit Lagos, the whole country is finished.”
GoodHype (@AriesEsteem) stated: “See what Tinubu, their brother, is causing for them.” BlushAura (@ani49488) also criticised the President’s leadership.
Pd Wild Truth (@Pdwildtruth) stressed the need for urgent action, writing: “This thing don pass ordinary threat. Imagine children becoming targets in their own communities. Government really needs to support local security and hunters before this situation gets out of hand.”
Trinity (@chrisbrokes) argued that authorities should have acted earlier, saying: “This is where prevention should’ve been long before letters started flying. Once criminals feel bold enough to announce intent, it’s already a systems failure, not just a security challenge.”
