A daring kidnapping on the Asaba-Agbor Expressway has triggered renewed concerns over the true state of security in Delta State, contradicting recent assurances by the state government of a safe and secure environment for residents and investors.
On Sunday evening, gunmen unleashed terror near the Road Safety Office in Issele-Uku, firing shots indiscriminately to halt motorists before attacking multiple vehicles.
Amid the chaos, an airport taxi driver was abducted, and his fate remains unknown as anxiety builds over a possible ransom demand from the kidnappers.
This latest incident has rattled the community and exposed what many see as glaring lapses in security, especially on critical highways meant to facilitate economic activity and transport.
The attack occurred just miles from Delta’s capital, Asaba, a city often paraded by officials as a model of peace and development.
Ironically, this revelation comes barely weeks after Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori reiterated that the state was “safe and peaceful,” a claim now thrown into question by fresh reports of armed violence, kidnappings, and unchecked criminal activity in key parts of the state.
“This is not just a security breach, it’s a wake-up call,” said a visibly frustrated resident of Issele-Uku, who spoke on condition of anonymity.
“We are tired of the promises. We want action. If they can kidnap someone this close to major security posts, what hope do the rest of us have?”
In a social media post signed by Hon. Ejike C. Obioko (Phantom-X), Special Assistant to the Governor on Waterways and Lands Security, the incident was confirmed and described as “disturbing.”
While he called for increased vigilance and collaboration between law enforcement agencies and the community, critics argue that such appeals are no longer enough.
Security experts and civil society observers have decried what they describe as a reactive and fragmented approach to safety in the state.
Many have called for a full security audit of the Asaba-Agbor corridor, the deployment of rapid-response patrols, and the use of surveillance technology to deter such brazen acts of violence.
Moreover, there is growing demand for transparency and accountability from the state’s security architecture, especially as millions of naira are budgeted yearly for safety initiatives that many claim are not translating into tangible outcomes on the ground.
As the state reels from yet another kidnapping, questions loom large: How secure is Delta really? Who is responsible for the repeated breakdowns in protection? And how long before the next victim is taken?
Until these questions are answered with decisive action, the people of Delta State may continue to live under a dark cloud of fear, uncertainty, and official silence.
When contacted, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Edafe Bright, said he was not aware of the incident and could not confirm it at the time.
“Not aware, not confirmed”, the image maker replied in a text message.
See his post below 
SECURITY UPDATE
There’s been a disturbing incident on the Asaba-Agbor expressway near the Road Safety Office in Issele-Uku, Delta State. Yesterday evening, gunmen fired shots to scare drivers into stopping, resulting in some vehicles being attacked and a kidnapping. An airport taxi driver was taken, and his whereabouts remain unknown. The community is anxiously awaiting potential ransom demands from the abductors.
Asaba, the capital of Delta State, has a rich history and cultural heritage. The city’s strategic location on the Niger River has made it a hub for trade and commerce. However, like many other parts of Nigeria, it faces security challenges, including kidnapping and armed robbery.
The incident highlights the need for increased vigilance and cooperation between law enforcement agencies and the community to prevent such crimes. The government and security agencies must work together to ensure the safety of citizens and visitors in the region.
If you’re concerned about your safety or have information about the incident, please contact local authorities or report to the nearest security agency.
Hon Ejike C. Obioko
(Phantom-X)
SA To Delta State Governor On Waterways And Lands Security
