Women from 14 communities in Amukpe District, Sapele Local Government Area of Delta State, on February 12, 2026, staged a dramatic protest against rising insecurity, publicly laying curses on suspected kidnappers, drug dealers and other criminal elements.

The gathering at Amukpe Roundabout was led mainly by elderly women, who declared that their communities were under siege and could no longer endure the wave of abductions and violence.

Participants came from Ikwegwru, Okirigwre, Amukpe, Ibada, Eko, Igbeku, Adagbrasa-Amukpe and neighbouring settlements. Community leaders described the protest as a cultural response rooted in tradition and a direct appeal to security agencies for urgent intervention. The demonstration featured chants, prayers and symbolic rites meant to warn perpetrators.

Among those present were Chief Morrison Asagba, Assistant Duke of Amukpe District; Hon. Samson Eruteyan Ohiambe, President-General of Amukpe District; Chief Festus Pemu; Chief Dennis Odebala; Chief Godday Okpako; and Hon. Hero Asagba.

Addressing journalists, Asagba said repeated kidnappings and violent attacks compelled traditional authorities to support the women’s action. According to him, invoking curses reflects longstanding traditional practices used to confront wrongdoing, predating Christianity, and is directed at those who “kill people like animals” and disrupt communal peace.

Eruteyan described the security situation as worsening, alleging kidnappings occur both day and night. He said the communities resolved to confront kidnappers, informants and drug peddlers enabling criminal activities, adding that leaders are collaborating with security agencies to provide intelligence leading to arrests.

Mrs. Doris Kpebughe lamented that many women have abandoned farming for fear of abduction, crippling livelihoods and children’s education. (Vanguard)

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