Orhionmwon Council Chairman Clears Notorious Ugboko Niro-Ugo Axis in Crackdown on Kidnappers’ Hideouts

The Executive Chairman of Orhionmwon Local Government Council, Hon. Thompson Osagie, has once again demonstrated decisive and people-focused leadership by fulfilling his commitment to rid the local government of criminal hideouts, as part of efforts to strengthen security across the area.

In a statement, the Chief Press Secretary to the Executive Chairman, Dennis Ugbudian, disclosed that during the monthly environmental sanitation exercise, the Council embarked on an extensive bush clearing operation along the notorious Ugboko Niro–Ugo axis of the Benin–Abraka Road, an area long identified as a hotspot for kidnapping and other criminal activities. The once-dense vegetation, which provided cover for criminal elements, has now been cleared, significantly improving visibility and enhancing safety for road users.

This intervention followed a high-level security peace meeting convened by the Chairman in Abudu, where stakeholders raised serious concerns over the alarming rate of kidnappings along the corridor. During the meeting, Hon. Osagie described the axis as a major flashpoint where criminals exploit the difficult terrain and pipeline routes to carry out their operations with increasing boldness. After extensive consultations, it was unanimously resolved that strategic bush clearing should be undertaken in identified flashpoints to dismantle criminal hideouts.

Acting swiftly on the resolution, the Chairman directed the Department of Environment, led by Mrs. Aghedo, to ensure the thorough execution of the operation. The directive was carried out to the letter, with bushes cleared and trees cut down to open up the area for proper surveillance and safe passage.

The exercise has been widely applauded by residents and road users, who expressed relief and appreciation for the intervention. Speaking at the site, the Supervising Councillor for Health and Environment, Hon. Osagie Edughan, commended the Chairman for his unwavering commitment to the welfare of the people.

Edughan stated, “This is a major relief for our people. For a long time, this axis has been a dreaded zone due to persistent criminal activities. Today, you can see the difference—motorists and residents alike are expressing joy. Hon. Osagie has once again proven that he is a leader who listens and acts decisively. Orhionmwon is indeed fortunate to have him.”

In a similar vein, a resident, Hon. Charles Ehigiator, described the intervention as timely and life-saving. He said, “This stretch has been one of the most dangerous along this road. Many lives have been lost, and several persons kidnapped here. Each time we approached this area, fear gripped us. Opening up this corridor is something we have long advocated, and we are grateful the Chairman has responded. This will go a long way in curbing criminal activities.” He also appreciated security personnel, including the Divisional Police Officer of Ugo, for ensuring a smooth operation.

Another resident, Mr. Uyi Amas Oghogho, praised the Chairman for prioritizing the safety of lives over politics. He remarked, “This is leadership in action. Clearing this criminal hideout will drastically reduce the risk of kidnapping and enable security agencies to respond swiftly to any threat. Kudos to Hon. Osagie for translating promises into tangible results.”

Reaffirming his administration’s commitment, Hon. Thompson Osagie emphasized that the safety of lives and property remains a top priority. He assured, “No meaningful development can take place without security. We are determined to confront these challenges head-on and ensure that every part of Orhionmwon is safe for our people. This is just one of many steps we are taking, and with the continued support of our people, we will achieve lasting peace and progress.”

Dennis Ugbudian added that the Chairman’s actions reflect a leader who listens and responds to the yearnings of his people, noting that similar operations would be extended to other flashpoints across the local government. Ugbudian reiterated that the Council under Hon. Osagie remains committed to security-led development. Ugbudian further called on residents to continue cooperating with security agencies and report suspicious activities to the appropriate authorities.