Urgent Call to Action: 7-Day Open Letter, Protesting Insecurity in Esanland and Nigeria, Day 1
This is Day one of our 7-Day Open Letter Protesting Insecurity in Esanland and Nigeria. Our aim is to shed light on the suffering of the people of Esanland—many of whom may be unheard and unseen by those who should be acting on their behalf.
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The 7 protest letters are written by Obehi Ewanfoh, a Nigerian writer and a member of the African diaspora community in Italy. The letters are a direct response to the intensifying security crisis in Nigeria, with a particular focus on the devastating impact it is having on his homeland of Esanland.
Background of the Security Situation in Nigeria
The security situation in Nigeria has reached a critical juncture, as violent extremism spreads from the northern regions to the central and southern parts of the country, devastating entire communities.
According to a December 2023 report The Impunity of Fulani Herdsmen: An Emerging Terrorist Group in the Nigerian Homeland written by scholars Emmanuel Ben-Edet, Edidiong Mendie, Ihekwoaba D. Onwudiwe, and Kashley Brown, the violent clashes between Fulani herdsmen and farmers have grown far more destructive, exacerbated by contentious government policies such as the federal grazing laws, which many argue are complicit in fueling these deadly attacks.
These violent episodes, which have claimed thousands of lives and left countless others displaced, are no longer confined to the northern states but are now bleeding into central and southern Nigeria, with dire consequences for national stability.
In his 7-day open letter series, protesting insecurity in Esanland and Nigeria, Obehi Ewanfoh confronts the government’s failure to take decisive action in curbing this growing menace and exposes the impunity with which these acts of terror are carried out.
The letters highlight the unbearable loss of life, property, and dignity, particularly in Esanland, Ewanfoh’s homeland, where the impact of these violent acts is felt most keenly. Through his words, he calls for urgent, transformative intervention to halt the violence, protect citizens, and restore peace to a nation on the brink.
For a deeper understanding of the issues at play, additional readings include Contextualising Fulani Herdsmen Conflict in Nigeria by Kingsley Emeka Ezemenaka and Chijioke Egwu Ekumaoko, which examines the role of President Muhammadu Buhari in exacerbating the conflict and the political and security failures that fuel the violence.
Another critical resource is Nomadic Fulani Herdsmen Turn Terrorists? Exploring The Situation And The Security Implications For Nigeria by F. Lanre-Babalola and Akpo-Robaro, which rigorously analyzes the rise of the Fulani herdsmen as a terrorist group, comparing their activities to the hallmarks of terrorism and urging the Nigerian government to adopt stronger security measures.
These works shed light on the complexities of the crisis, underscoring the need for immediate and comprehensive solutions to prevent further bloodshed.
The people of Uromi and the surrounding towns are enduring unspeakable hardship, living in constant fear of abduction and murder, especially as they work on their farms. This growing threat has forced entire communities to retreat in hiding, abandoning their land and livelihood, leaving them vulnerable to artificial poverty and hunger.
As these security challenges mount, the fabric of Esanland is rapidly unraveling, threatening not just the physical safety of our people but also their economic well-being and sense of hope for a better future. This letter, along with the others in the coming days, carries our 10-point recommendations—actions we believe are necessary to restore peace and security to Esanland.
Our deep hope is that those in positions of authority hear our voices and finally take decisive steps to address this crisis before it is too late.
We write with urgency, not just as citizens but as individuals who care deeply about the future of our homeland, Esanland, and the federal republic of Nigeria.
Letter Of Protest Against Insecurity in Esanland
To:
His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Federal Republic of Nigeria,
His Excellency, Governor Monday Okpebholo, Edo State, Nigeria.
We, the concerned Nigerians in the diaspora, write to you with urgency and deep concern about the escalating insecurity that has gripped Uromi, Esanland, and the surrounding communities in Edo State.
As members of the global Nigerian family, we watch in horror as our homeland is ravaged by an increasing wave of violent crimes—abductions, armed robberies, and assaults—that threaten to destabilize not only Esanland but our beloved Nigeria.
This letter comes from Obehi Ewanfoh, a son of Uromi, along with other members of the Nigerian diaspora, who stand united in calling for swift and decisive intervention to restore peace and security to our people.
See also The Origin Of Uromi And Esanland, Nigeria (Agba: The Esan God Of War, 1)
The State of Insecurity: A Crisis We Can No Longer Ignore
Esanland, once a peaceful and thriving community, is now a region plagued by violence. In recent months and years, Uromi and the surrounding towns have been plagued by a terrifying rise in kidnappings for ransom, armed robberies, and violent confrontations.
Farmers can no longer work their fields in peace; businesses are being destroyed by the ever-present threat of crime; and families are being torn apart as kidnappers target innocent people, including children and the elderly. The devastating effects of this insecurity are evident in every corner of the region.
As reported by Reuters on March 28 (yesterday), “Kidnapping for ransom and violence linked to Fulani herders have escalated into a widespread and deepening crisis in Nigeria, exacerbating insecurity, displacement, and fueling inter-ethnic tensions throughout the country.”
In Uromi, people are continuously been abducted, held captive for days until their loved ones scrape together enough money to meet the ransom demands. In Ekpoma, the University town, students, lecturers, and business owners live under the constant threat of violent criminals. The people of Esanland are living in a perpetual state of fear.
Insecurity in Esanland is not merely a law enforcement issue—it is a crisis with far-reaching social and economic consequences.
It has crippled local businesses, driven away investors, and severely impacted agriculture, which is the lifeblood of our economy. The ripple effect is profound. According to the World Bank, agriculture represents over 25% of Nigeria’s GDP, and for many Nigerians in rural areas, it is their main source of livelihood.
As the land that once produced food and sustenance for families lies abandoned, the economic and social structure of Esanland is threatened with collapse.
The Urgent Need for Intervention: A Call to Action
Mr. President, Governor Monday Okpebholo, this situation is dire, and the need for intervention cannot be overstated. The federal and state governments must take immediate and forceful action to restore peace and order in Esanland.
The time for promises and pledges has passed; urgent and decisive measures are needed. The security of the people in Esanland should be a national priority, and we, the Nigerian diaspora, are appealing to you to take the following steps to address this crisis:
- Establish a Military Base in Uromi
We urgently request the federal government to establish a military base in Uromi, Esan North-East Local Government Area, to serve as a strategic point for responding to security threats in the entire region. This permanent military presence would help to deter criminal activities, provide rapid response capabilities, and restore a sense of security to local communities. - Strengthen Police Presence and Infrastructure
The government should increase the number of police officers stationed in Uromi and surrounding towns. Adequate training, resources, and equipment should be provided to enhance their ability to respond to emergencies effectively. Regular police patrols, especially during vulnerable hours, will help to deter criminals and reassure residents of their safety. - Empower and Equip Local Vigilante Groups
We recommend increased support for local vigilante groups, such as the Esan Youth Awareness. These groups play a crucial role in grassroots security efforts and should be empowered through funding, training, and collaboration with law enforcement agencies to improve intelligence gathering and crime prevention. - Implement Community Policing Initiatives
Strengthen community policing efforts by recruiting and training local youth to assist in the policing of their own communities. This would foster trust between law enforcement and residents, ensuring more effective crime reporting, prevention, and swift response to incidents. Community engagement is key to addressing local concerns and rebuilding trust. - Deploy Surveillance Infrastructure
We recommend the installation of CCTV cameras in strategic locations across Uromi and other key towns, such as marketplaces, major roads, and public spaces. This would help monitor criminal activity, provide evidence for investigations, and act as a deterrent to potential offenders. - Launch Public Awareness and Safety Campaigns
A public awareness campaign is needed to educate residents about safety measures, emergency response protocols, and the importance of reporting suspicious activities. This campaign should be conducted through schools, religious centers, and community meetings, encouraging local communities to play an active role in securing their environment. - Ensure Swift and Fair Judicial Action
We call for the swift and fair trial of individuals implicated in criminal activities, especially those involved in kidnapping and violent crimes. A transparent judicial system that holds perpetrators accountable will act as a deterrent to others and restore the confidence of the public in the rule of law. - Create Safe Grazing Grounds for Herdsmen
To minimize conflicts between farmers and herders, we urge the establishment of designated grazing grounds for cattle herders. This would reduce the risk of herders invading farmlands, damaging crops, and causing tensions with local farmers, thus promoting peaceful coexistence between different groups in the region. - Increase Forest Patrols to Combat Kidnapping and Illicit Activities
We recommend increased patrols of the forests surrounding Esanland, which are currently being used as hideouts for criminals involved in kidnapping and other illicit activities. These patrols should be led by both local law enforcement and military units to secure the forests, protect residents, and ensure that agricultural activities can resume without fear of attack. - Foster Collaboration Among All Ethnic Groups
To avoid exacerbating ethnic tensions, we urge the government to ensure that all communities, including non-indigenous populations, collaborate with security forces to identify and remove criminal elements. Cooperation from all ethnic groups is necessary to ensure that Esanland remains a peaceful place where everyone, irrespective of origin, can thrive in safety.
These 10-point recommendations represent a comprehensive and holistic approach to addressing the insecurity in Esanland.
See also Second Burial In Esan Weltanschauung: A Retrospective And Prospective Interrogation – Research Paper
By taking immediate and decisive action on these recommendations, we believe that the government can restore peace and stability to the region, allowing the people of Esanland to reclaim their land, their livelihoods, and their future.
The Role of the Diaspora: Unity in Action
As Nigerians in the diaspora, we are not distant observers. We have a deep, personal connection to our homeland, and we recognize that this crisis affects all of us.
We cannot afford to stand idly by while our people suffer. It is time for the Nigerian diaspora to stand in solidarity with the people of Esanland and support the call for intervention. Our voice, our resources, and our expertise should be channelled for this same cause. Together, we can ensure that Esanland is not abandoned but protected and restored to its rightful place of peace and prosperity.
We call on you, Mr. President and Governor Monday Okpebholo, to act decisively in this moment of crisis. The people of Esanland cannot wait any longer. They need your leadership now.
Conclusion: A Plea for Urgent Action
We write to you not only as concerned citizens of Esanland but as passionate advocates for a safer, more prosperous Nigeria. The security of our people is paramount.
The challenges we face today are dire, but they are not insurmountable. With swift and coordinated action, we can ensure that Esanland becomes a model for peace, security, and development in Nigeria.
The future of Esanland, and indeed Nigeria, depends on the actions we take today. We urge you, Mr. President and Governor Monday Okpebholo, to prioritize the security and well-being of the people of Esanland. We stand with you in this fight for justice, peace, and a sustainable future.
Learn How to Leverage Your Story through our Story To Asset Framework.
We wish for lasting peace and security to prevail in Esanland and throughout the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Obehi Ewanfoh,
A member of the Nigerian/African diaspora community in Italy.
