A wave of fear and anger has swept through the Agbarho community in Ughelli North Local Government Area of Delta State, following the mysterious disappearance of at least 26 children over the past eight months.
In a powerful display of grief and protest, women from the community—dressed in black—took to the streets, chanting sorrowful songs and carrying placards with messages such as “Stop Stealing Our Children,” “Where Are Our Kids?” and “We Want Justice.”
The missing children, reportedly aged between three and ten, vanished under unclear circumstances, leaving families devastated and the community gripped with anxiety.
Despite repeated reports to security agencies and local authorities, residents say there has been little to no progress in resolving the crisis. The lack of answers has only deepened suspicion and outrage among families.
“We are living in fear every day,” said Mrs. Efe Okoro, one of the protesting mothers. “Children go to school and never return. Some disappear while playing just in front of their homes. Nobody is safe anymore.”
Another protester, Mrs. Itohan Orugbo, accused the government and security forces of negligence. “If our children were the children of senators or top politicians, would they still be missing?” she questioned angrily.
The Ovie of Agbarho Kingdom, His Royal Majesty Ogurimerime Okorefe I, condemned the unsettling trend, calling it “a declaration of war against the people.” In a statement, he urged security agencies to act swiftly or risk a total breakdown of law and order in the community. He also called on local vigilantes to intensify surveillance and advised parents to remain vigilant over their children.
As the community awaits decisive action, the haunting question remains: Where are the missing children of Agbarho?
