Five dead, building burnt as gunmen invade Benue border community

At least five persons were reportedly killed and a house set on fire when armed assailants carried out a late-night attack on Azoke village in Ado Local Government Area of Benue State.

Sources within the community said the incident occurred at about 9:00 p.m. on February 19.

The attackers were alleged to have come from Akparata in Ohaukwu Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, storming the village and opening fire on residents.

The victims were named as Nwefuru Elu, Nwefuru Agnes, Nwali Nworie Christianana, Obasi Nwode and Nwozo Nwode.

In addition to the fatalities, the gunmen reportedly razed a residential building belonging to Elumu Nwokwo, heightening tension and panic among locals.

It was gathered that security personnel swung into action following a distress alert, moving to the scene to evaluate the damage and commence preliminary investigations.

Authorities have since initiated a manhunt for those behind the assault, assuring that a thorough investigation is ongoing to determine the exact circumstances of the cross-border attack.

Residents have been urged to remain peaceful and cooperate with law enforcement agencies as measures are intensified to prevent further violence in the area.