Kidnapping remains one of the most troubling security issues affecting communities across Nigeria, and Edo State is not exempt. While security agencies continue to intensify efforts to curb the menace, residents must also take proactive steps to stay safe and protect their families.
Below are practical, everyday precautions Edo people can follow to reduce vulnerability and strengthen personal security.
1. Limit Late-Night Movements
Most kidnap attempts occur in poorly lit areas or late at night when movement is low.
Avoid:
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Walking alone at night
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Taking unfamiliar shortcuts
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Travelling on deserted routes after 8 pm
When late travel is unavoidable, move in groups or ensure someone trustworthy knows your route and estimated arrival time.
2. Be Discreet About Personal Information
Many kidnappings begin with leaked information.
Avoid publicly revealing:
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Your travel plans
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Your place of work or business
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Your financial status
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Your children’s school location
Limit what you share with strangers, domestic workers, and even on social media.
3. Use Trusted Transportation Only
If you use taxis, buses, or ride-hailing services:
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Choose registered companies only
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Verify number plates
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Share the ride details with someone
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Avoid entering vehicles with suspicious passengers or drivers
At parks, avoid drivers who rush passengers or display nervous behavior.
4. Strengthen Your Home Security
Many kidnappings occur through home invasions. Improve your home safety by:
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Installing quality door and window locks
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Using outdoor security lights
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Keeping your surroundings well-trimmed
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Having dogs or basic alarm systems
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Avoiding opening the door for unknown visitors
Neighbors should maintain community watch habits and report strange faces or unusual movements.
5. Stay Alert at ATMs, Banks, and Busy Centers
Financial transactions attract kidnappers and armed gangs.
At ATMs or banks:
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Avoid withdrawing large amounts at once
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Do not count money in public
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Scan your surroundings before moving
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Avoid ATM stands at night
If you notice someone monitoring you, walk towards security personnel immediately.
6. Be Cautious with Phone Conversations in Public
Discussing money, land deals, travel plans, or business profits in open areas can make you a target.
Keep such conversations private and short.
7. Inform Family Before Travelling
Before travelling to Lagos, Abuja, the East, or within Edo:
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Send your plate number
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Share your route
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Update on every major stop
If travelling by bus, choose reputable companies and avoid last-minute roadside pickups.
8. Report Suspicious Activities Immediately
If you observe:
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Strange vehicles loitering
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Unknown persons asking unnecessary questions
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Neighbors acting unusually secretive
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Repeated movement around your compound at night
Contact local vigilantes or police immediately. Many kidnaps succeed because people ignore early warning signs.
9. Teach Children Basic Safety Rules
Children are increasingly targeted. Parents should teach them:
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Not to follow strangers
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Not to accept rides or gifts
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Emergency contact numbers
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How to shout loudly and run when threatened
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To avoid walking alone to school or home
Schools should also take attendance seriously and secure their gates.
10. Build Community Watch Networks
Edo communities historically thrive on unity. Reviving neighborhood watch groups improves safety drastically.
Encourage:
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Vigilante patrols
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Night watch volunteers
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Community meetings
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Immediate reporting systems
Collective vigilance is more effective than individual caution.
Conclusion
While the government and security agencies continue fighting kidnapping across Edo State, residents must actively protect themselves, their families, and their communities. Being alert, cautious, and security-conscious can significantly reduce personal risks.
Edo people are known for resilience. With smart safety habits and community cooperation, the state can become safer and better protected.
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