A community in Edo State has made an urgent appeal to the government to end the wave of kidnappings and killings plaguing the area.

Residents say they can no longer go about their daily activities without fear. Farmers have abandoned their lands, and traders have reduced their movements. The community leaders described the situation as a full-blown security crisis.

According to locals, armed men have been invading homes and dragging people away for ransom. Those who cannot pay are often killed in cold blood. Several victims have lost their lives in recent weeks alone.

The attackers strike mostly at night, leaving families in mourning. Many residents now sleep with one eye open, afraid of the next knock on the door.

Community leaders have held emergency meetings to discuss how to protect themselves. They have also written to the Edo State government and security agencies. Their message is simple: deploy more soldiers and police to the area. They are also asking for mobile patrols and checkpoints along major roads. Without quick action, they fear the entire community could be forced to flee.

Some residents have already started moving their families to safer towns. Children are being kept home from school because parents fear they may be snatched on the way. Local businesses have also suffered, as customers are too scared to visit. The economic impact has been severe, with many families struggling to feed themselves.

One elder said the community feels abandoned and forgotten.

The Edo State government has promised to look into the matter. Security forces have been ordered to increase patrols in the affected areas. However, residents say they have heard such promises before. They are now demanding visible action and results. Until then, the community remains trapped between fear and survival. Their cry is simple, enough is enough, and help must come now.