by EBEN ENASCO As insecurity continues to challenge communities across the country, including Edo State, one often-overlooked solution is keeping proper records of newcomers moving into towns and villages. Kidnapping has become a recurring problem in many local communities across the state. Areas such as Akoko Edo, Auchi, Ekpoma, Uhromi, Ovia, Orhionmwon, and Uhunmwonde have reported frequent incidents. Most kidnapping exploits in local communities are often reportedly spearheaded by Fulani extract who have been reported to have occupied various forests armed with sophisticated weapons down southern Nigeria. This development has caused the escalation of mistrusts and a further tension around farming villages who are mostly vunelrable to attacks. The few people living in their communities have either abandoned farming practices, or relocated permanently fearing the worst attacks. Food shortage has ravaged the already downward sliding economy and is clearly reflecting on both low an...
YENAGOA, BAYELSA STATE – Environmental advocates and community leaders in Bayelsa State have raised fresh concerns over the continued degradation of the Biseni environment following an oil spill that occurred about five months ago, with parts of the affected area now reportedly set ablaze. Biseni Kingdom, located in Yenagoa Local Government Area of Bayelsa State, comprises of 13 communities and hosts oil operations belonging to Renaissance Africa Energy Company and Oando PLC, formerly Shell and Agip. The area is crisscrossed by numerous oil wells and pipelines transporting crude oil and gas to neighboring Rivers State. Over the years, the kingdom has witnessed repeated incidents of oil spills, many of which have devastated farmlands, lakes, fish ponds, and other natural water bodies due to the terrain of the area. Residents, whose livelihoods depend heavily on farming and fishing, say such incidents have had severe economic, environmental, and health consequences. According to co...