EDITORIAL: Oganenigu’s Cry for Help: A Call to Action for Kogi State Government

The recurring attacks by suspected herdsmen on Oganenigu Community in Dekina Local Government Area of Kogi State have reached a boiling point, necessitating urgent attention from the state government and citizens. Despite the community’s sizable population, its residents are frequently forced to flee, leaving behind their homes, livelihoods, and sense of security. The disruption caused by these attacks is unimaginable, and it’s imperative that concrete steps are taken to bring an end to the carnage.

The Oganenigu community, comprising over 13 villages, has been under siege since 2015, with lives lost, properties destroyed, and a palpable sense of fear gripping its residents. The April 2023 attacks, which resulted in the deaths of several community members, including the APC ward chairman, Hon. James Adah, and the destruction of over 50 houses, are still fresh in the minds of the people. The state government’s response, while initially swift, has been criticised for being inadequate and ineffective in providing lasting solutions.

To address this issue, the Kogi State government, under the leadership of Governor Ahmed Ododo, must deploy a permanent security presence in the community to provide round-the-clock security and deter future attacks. This could involve establishing a military or mobile police presence in the area. Furthermore, the government should conduct a thorough investigation into the attacks and bring the perpetrators to justice, ensuring that those responsible are held accountable for their actions.

The government should also offer adequate relief and support to the affected communities, including food, shelter, and medical care, to help them recover from the trauma and loss caused by the attacks. Additionally, encouraging dialogue between the community leaders, herders, and other stakeholders can help address the root causes of the conflict and find mutually beneficial solutions.

Citizens of Oganenigu community can also play a vital role in promoting peace and stability. Community-based peacebuilding initiatives, such as interfaith dialogue, youth empowerment programmes, and community outreach initiatives, can foster greater understanding and cooperation between different groups. Community members should also be encouraged to report suspicious activities and maintain vigilance, working closely with security agencies to prevent future attacks.

Economic empowerment programmes, such as agriculture, entrepreneurship, and skills development, can also help community members rebuild their lives and reduce dependence on external aid. By supporting these initiatives, the government and citizens can work together to promote peace, security, and development in the community.

There can never be progress without peace. The recurring attacks on Oganenigu community have not only claimed lives and destroyed properties but also undermined the community’s sense of security and stability. It’s time for the state government and citizens to work together to address the root causes of the conflict and find lasting solutions. By taking concrete steps to promote peace, security, and development, Oganenigu community can begin to rebuild and thrive, ensuring a brighter future for its residents.

The plight of Oganenigu community is a call to action for the state government and citizens. We must work together to address the social and economic consequences of the continuous disruptive and herdsmen carnage, promoting peace, security, and development in the community. Only through collective effort can we ensure that Oganenigu community enjoys the peace and stability it deserves. The government and citizens must prioritise the safety and well-being of the community, working tirelessly to create a brighter future for all.