Toba Owojaiye reporting
Benin City, Edo State
In what can only be described as a blatant attempt to derail the security efforts of the Esan Awareness Security Network (EASN), certain powerful interests within Esanland are allegedly working behind the scenes to frustrate the group’s mission.
This locally-driven security outfit, backed by patriotic sons and daughters of Esan both at home and abroad, has been instrumental in restoring order to Uromi and surrounding areas plagued by kidnappers and criminals.
However, recent developments indicate that their fight against crime is now being met with an equally aggressive counterforce—one that appears disturbingly aligned with the very elements threatening Esanland’s peace.
A War Against Crime or a War Against Those Fighting Crime?
The EASN, under the leadership of Mr. Bruce, a Europe-based Uromi indigene, has been on the frontline of a relentless battle against kidnapping and criminal activities in Esanland. With unwavering community support, the initiative has pushed back against notorious criminal networks that once held the region hostage.
But rather than receiving commendation and institutional backing, the group is now facing unexpected resistance from retired CP Friday Ibadin, the newly appointed chairman of the state security network. Reports suggest that instead of reinforcing security efforts, CP Ibadin is allegedly using his office to harass and intimidate members of the EASN—a move that has raised serious questions about his true allegiance.
Who Stands to Gain From a Lawless Uromi?
It is no secret that certain powerful figures in Uromi have long benefited from the chaos that once reigned in the town. These individuals, accused of aiding and abetting criminal elements, are now deploying every available resource to weaken the Esan Awareness Security Network. Sources indicate that some of these figures have even sought to use law enforcement channels to discredit and dismantle the initiative, all in a desperate bid to maintain their stronghold over illicit activities.
The case of Hamilton—a man widely accused of deep involvement in kidnappings—further illustrates the dangerous forces at play. His name has repeatedly surfaced in connection with criminal activities, and his relationship with influential backers has fueled suspicions that a syndicate of well-connected individuals is working against the interests of Esanland.
The Role of Rita Ufuah: A Pawn or a Willing Accomplice?
Another disturbing development in this saga is the role of one Rita Ufuah, whose recent actions have sparked outrage within the Esan community.
Ufuah is accused of deliberately disrupting the activities of EASN, allegedly at the behest of those who seek to see Uromi remain a haven for criminals. Her involvement, particularly in allegedly engineering the arrest of security operatives from Benin, has positioned her as an enemy of the people—one whose actions must be scrutinized in the larger context of this ongoing struggle.
A Call for Esan Sons and Daughters to Rise
The people of Uromi and Esanland at large are now calling on all well-meaning indigenes to speak up and demand an end to these subversive tactics. They are urging CP Friday Ibadin to stop harassing those who are risking their lives to protect the community and instead focus on the real enemies—the criminal elements and their sponsors.
Mr. Bruce and his team have vowed not to relent in their mission, despite mounting opposition. “This is not my fight alone,” he declared. “This is a fight for the survival of Uromi and Esanland. The forces of darkness will not prevail.”
Conclusion: The Future of Uromi at Stake
The battle for Uromi’s safety is far from over. As the people rally behind the Esan Awareness Security Network, one question looms large: Will the state security network, under CP Ibadin’s leadership, support or sabotage these efforts?
The time for pretenses is over. Those who seek to destabilize Esanland must be unmasked, and the people must stand united against all forms of oppression. The legacy of Esan warriors past must not be tainted by a few desperate individuals who thrive on bloodshed and terror.
The world is watching. Uromi must not fall.