Hundreds of women from Eke Community in Enugu State’s Udi Local Government Area took to the streets to protest the rampant kidnapping cases plaguing their community.
Armed with green leaves, they marched through major roads, blocking the 9th Mile – Eke – Ezeagu road and Eke – Akpakwume – Nze roads, to express their frustration and discontent with the government’s inaction.
The women chanted songs, lamenting how kidnappers, allegedly Fulani herdsmen, have been targeting them, disrupting their daily lives. They can no longer go to farms or move freely, fearing for their safety.
A video of the protest seen by our reporter on Wednesday evening, the protesting women were overheard saying: “kidnappers has dealt with Eke people. They are kidnapping us one by one. Kidnapper! Kidnapper!! Kidnapper!!! Fulani herdsmen kidnappers have dealt with Eke people. Eke women we don’t go to farm again. They don’t go out again. Kidnappers have dealt with us in Eke. What crime have we committed. Our children who were trying to protect us, Nigerian soldiers killed them.”
The protesters also condemned the killing of some members of the State Neighbourhood Watch by Nigerian soldiers while responding to a distress call.
Eke Community is one of the largest in Udi Local Government Area, which comprises several towns and villages, including Amokwe, Ngwo, Obioma, and Owhum.
The community has faced significant security challenges, with kidnapping incidents occurring almost daily. The protesters urged the Enugu State government to take immediate and drastic measures to address the situation.
The protest highlights the growing concern about insecurity in Nigeria, particularly in rural areas. The government’s response to these incidents will be crucial in restoring peace and safety to affected communities.
