Inhabitants of the Inikorogha communities in Ovia South West Local Government Area of Edo State recently staged a peaceful protest in response to alleged plans to secretly withdraw security personnel who have been instrumental in maintaining peace and security within the area.
The residents, expressing their concerns and frustrations, gathered to voice their opposition to this perceived threat to their safety and well-being.
This development underscores the critical role that security personnel play in upholding law and order within communities, particularly in areas with a history of security challenges. The presence of security forces not only deters criminal activities but also provides a sense of security and stability for the residents, enabling them to go about their daily lives without fear
Protesting residents of Inikorogha communities in Edo State
The protest highlights the deep-seated anxieties and fears that arise when there is a perceived risk of losing the protection provided by security personnel. Inikorogha residents, like many others around the world, understand the value of a safe and secure environment in fostering community cohesion and promoting socio-economic development.
Inikorogha as a whole is made up of over 22 communities.
The residents of Inikorogha took to the streets armed not with weapons, but with placards bearing messages that represent their deepest fears and urgent pleas. The inscriptions on these placards, such as “Come to our aid Mr Governor,” “We need peace to do our business in Inikorogha,” and “Armed robbers come here to rape and rob our wives and women,” cut through the silence and tell a story of a community in dire need of intervention.
The use of placards as a form of communication is a powerful tool that speaks volumes about the frustrations and hopes of the individuals holding them. Each handwritten message encapsulates a personal narrative of fear, survival, and a plea for security.
The choice of words, from the stark “rape and rob” to the stark plea to the Governor, reflects the raw emotions and lived experiences of the residents.
The Chairman of Inikorogha community, Friday Benson, made a compelling appeal to Governor Godwin Obaseki for the extension and augmentation of security presence in the region.
With escalating security concerns plaguing many communities, Benson’s plea highlights the pressing need for enhanced security measures to safeguard the lives and properties of residents.
The call for increased security presence resonates with the pervasive challenges faced by communities in the face of rising crime rates and insecurity. By urging Governor Obaseki to prioritize the allocation of resources towards bolstering security, Benson underscores the crucial role that proactive measures play in fostering stability and peace within communities.
Inikorogha has experienced a significant transformation under the leadership of the Governor, who has prioritized peace, security, and infrastructural development in the region.
By fostering peace and security, the Governor has created a conducive environment for growth and progress in Inikorogha. Moreover, the construction of roads linking communities demonstrates a commitment to enhancing connectivity and promoting socio-economic development.
The Governor’s commendable efforts in ensuring peace and security in Inikorogha have not only improved the quality of life for its residents but have also attracted investment opportunities, leading to economic growth and prosperity.
Additionally, the construction of roads has facilitated easier access to essential services, enhanced transportation systems, and promoted social integration among different communities.
According to him, “What we are saying in essence is that nobody should truncate the effort of the Governor by plans to remove security from our communities. There is a great improvement of security in the last one and half years.
We thank the Governor for providing the needed security “Prior to now, evil attacks were meted on our communities, but today we have strong presence of security with the deployment of special forces at mile 3.
Their presence has checkmated insecurity being perpetrated in our land by some unscrupulous elements.”
Also speaking, the Chairman of Elders Council, Philip Polo, who expressed worry over news of plans to remove the special forces providing security in the areas, called for more deployment of security personnel.
Chairman of Elders Council, Philip Polo, has voiced concern over the proposed removal of special forces in certain areas and has emphasized the need for increased deployment of security personnel.
Polo’s statement highlights the importance of maintaining a strong security presence to ensure the safety and well-being of communities. The call for more security personnel underscores the crucial role they play in safeguarding residents and addressing potential threats effectively.
Polo’s stance aligns with the broader notion that proactive measures are essential in maintaining law and order within communities. By advocating for increased deployment of security forces, Polo recognizes the importance of having a visible and responsive security presence to deter criminal activities and ensure the protection of citizens.
This proactive approach can help instill a sense of safety and security among residents, fostering a conducive environment for social and economic development.
Moreover, Polo’s emphasis on the significance of security personnel resonates with the idea that security is a fundamental pillar of peace and stability.
In volatile regions or areas facing security challenges, the presence of sufficient security forces is crucial for maintaining order and addressing security threats promptly. The Chairman’s call for more security deployment underscores the need for a strategic and well-coordinated security framework to effectively address evolving security dynamics and safeguard community interests.
Chairman Philip Polo’s advocacy for increased deployment of security personnel highlights the pivotal role that security forces play in ensuring the safety and stability of communities.
By emphasizing the necessity of maintaining a robust security presence, Polo underscores the importance of proactive security measures in addressing security challenges effectively. His call serves as a reminder of the critical role that security forces play in upholding law and order and protecting the well-being of citizens.
