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| Igwe Maximus Iliobi appeals for security |
Igwe Maximus Iliobi, traditional ruler of Nimo in Njikoka LGA, has urged security agencies to send more personnel. He warns that hoodlums have taken over key parts of the town. He says the extra forces will restore order and protect lives.
Nimo has seen a rise in violent acts by small gangs over three years. These groups block roads, chase traders from markets, and threaten investors. Local elders report that such acts have stalled new projects and scared away visitors .
On Saturday, a group of youths besieged the town’s main market. They carried a corpse through the streets. They claimed the monarch ordered the arrest of a young man who later died in custody. The youths forced traders to close shops and called for justice .
Igwe Iliobi denied linking to the youth’s death. He said the protesters work for land grabbers. He stressed his sole aim is peace and growth. He detailed efforts to engage idle youths in skills training and scholarships.
Families fear for their safety. Traders stay home on market days. School attendance has dipped. Parents worry about their children walking alone to school. Elder women pray daily for calm.
The monarch helped fund skill programs at Innoson and under the state’s One Youth Two Skills scheme. Fourteen indigent students study medicine and engineering under his scholarship. But some youths reject help and choose crime.
Njikoka Council once asked security agencies to boost patrols at crime hotspots. They named Nimo-Neni axis as high-risk. They also urged town unions to activate local vigilante groups .
Governor Soludo launched Udo Ga Achi/Agunechemba units. These local squads aim to curb kidnapping and robbery. The governor praised community leaders who support the drive.
A security analyst notes extra patrols can deter small gangs. He says regular checkpoints and community alerts keep criminals off guard. He adds that clear intelligence sharing boosts success.
Some accuse the monarch of sidelining opposing voices. They claim he used soldiers to enforce order during last Christmas. They want a neutral inquiry into all deaths in custody.
Peace will return when both sides trust each other. More patrols must pair with dialogue. An independent panel could review all claims.
Igwe Iliobi asked the Police, DSS, and state units to send more officers now. He warned that delays could fuel more chaos.
Nimo needs calm to grow. Extra security paired with talks can heal rifts. Both rulers and youths must give peace a chance.