Reps Member Raises Concern Over Rising Kidnappings, Killings in Ekiti Communities

A member of the House of Representatives Nigeria, Akin Rotimi Jr, has raised alarm over the increasing cases of kidnapping and killings across several communities in Ekiti State, calling for urgent action from security agencies to address the worsening situation.

Rotimi, who represents the Ikole/Oye Federal Constituency, made the appeal during plenary on Tuesday at the National Assembly complex in Abuja.

The lawmaker expressed deep concern over what he described as a disturbing surge in attacks carried out by suspected kidnappers and other criminal elements operating within rural and semi-urban communities in the state.

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According to him, residents of several towns and villages have been living in constant fear due to the increasing activities of armed criminals who target travellers, farmers and other vulnerable members of the public.

Rotimi told fellow lawmakers that the rising insecurity has begun to take a toll on the daily lives and economic activities of people in the affected areas.

He explained that many farmers are now reluctant to visit their farms out of fear of being kidnapped or attacked by armed groups, a situation he warned could negatively affect agricultural production and food supply within the state.

“Communities in Ekiti have recently witnessed a disturbing rise in attacks by suspected kidnappers and armed criminals, leaving many residents living in fear and uncertainty,” the lawmaker said during the plenary session.

He noted that the growing insecurity has also affected small businesses and other economic activities, as many residents now limit their movements, especially during early morning and evening hours when attacks are more likely to occur.

Rotimi therefore called on the Federal Government of Nigeria and security agencies to take immediate steps to address the threat.
He urged authorities to strengthen surveillance across vulnerable communities and deploy additional security personnel to areas experiencing frequent attacks.

According to the lawmaker, improved intelligence gathering and coordination among security agencies would also play a crucial role in identifying and dismantling criminal networks responsible for the attacks.

He further stressed the need for closer collaboration between formal security agencies and local community structures in order to improve response to security threats.

Rotimi called for stronger partnerships involving traditional rulers, community leaders and local vigilante groups who are often the first line of defence in rural communities.

Such collaboration, he said, would help improve information sharing and enhance the ability of security agencies to respond quickly to emerging threats.

The lawmaker also emphasised the importance of proactive security strategies rather than reactive responses after attacks have already taken place.

He maintained that with effective planning, stronger surveillance systems and active community participation, the rising wave of kidnappings and killings could be significantly reduced.

Rotimi urged security authorities to prioritise the protection of lives and property in the affected communities, adding that restoring public confidence in the safety of the state should be treated as a national priority.

Residents in several parts of Ekiti have in recent months expressed growing concern over incidents of kidnapping and violent attacks, particularly along rural roads and farm settlements.

Security analysts say addressing the challenge will require a combination of increased security presence, intelligence-driven operations and community cooperation.

Authorities have repeatedly assured the public that efforts are ongoing to combat criminal activities and strengthen security across the country.