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Farm settlers living in forested areas in Etsako East Local Government Area of Edo state have been directed to relocate to nearby towns and villages as part of efforts to strengthen security and enhance community accountability.
The Acting Chairman of Etsako East Local Government Area, Sunny Ekpetika Ekpeson, gave the directive while coordinating a security operation across major forest corridors in the council yesterday.
The exercise covered communities from Ivioghomhe through Izotha and Edgbe along the railway axis, extending to Osholo, Emokwemhe and Upland-Iviogbe, as well as Igiode and Uzanu—areas considered among the most volatile and bordering Kogi State.
Ekpeson said the measure was not aimed at disrupting legitimate farming activities but at ensuring residents operate within identifiable and secure community structures.
He noted that isolated settlements in dense forests create vulnerabilities that could be exploited by criminal elements.
“Our responsibility is to protect lives and property. Genuine farmers and residents are encouraged to integrate into recognised communities where there is proper oversight and collective security,” he said.
The operation involved personnel of the Nigerian Army, local security outfits and vigilante groups, who jointly combed the affected areas to reinforce security presence.
The chairman commended their professionalism and reaffirmed the council’s commitment to sustained peacekeeping efforts.
He assured residents that agriculture remains vital to the local economy and will continue to receive government support, stressing, however, that safety must take priority amid evolving security challenges.
Ekpeson also urged traditional rulers and community leaders to strengthen vigilance and ensure responsible land administration, including proper profiling of settlers and visitors to enhance accountability.
He reiterated that Etsako East remains open to all law-abiding individuals, noting that the relocation directive is a proactive step to improve surveillance, promote transparency and build safer communities.
