Benue: Gunmen kill ex-Otukpo LG chair Ijachi months after brother’s murder

Residents of Otukpo in Benue State were thrown into shock on Thursday night after suspected gunmen shot dead a former caretaker chairman of the local government, Udeh Ijachi.

Ijachi, popularly known as “Honourable Ukpem,” was reportedly attacked and killed by unidentified assailants in a brazen shooting believed to have occurred near Okabido Hotel in Otukpo.

Eyewitnesses said the attackers suddenly opened fire on the former council boss at close range before fleeing the scene, leaving residents and passers-by in panic. The sound of gunshots reportedly caused confusion in the area as people rushed out to see what had happened.

The killing has sparked tension in nearby Ugboju, the hometown of the deceased, where community members have begun calling for a thorough investigation into the incident.

Residents described the attack as shocking, noting that the former council chairman was a well-known political figure in the area.

The latest tragedy is coming barely five months after the killing of his brother, Ejeh Udeh, who was also shot dead by gunmen at his residence in Ugboju.

According to eyewitnesses, Ejeh Udeh was attacked by armed men who arrived on motorcycles and opened fire on him as he returned home. He was rushed to a hospital but was later confirmed dead.

Community leaders say the two killings within a short period have heightened fears in the area, with many residents demanding that security agencies uncover those responsible.

As of the time of filing this report, security authorities had yet to issue an official statement on the latest killing. However, locals have urged law enforcement agencies to launch a full investigation, arrest the perpetrators, and strengthen security in Otukpo and surrounding communities.

The motive behind the attack on the former council chairman remains unknown.