Benue: Otukpo LG Chairman condemns killing of ex-caretaker chair, Udeh Ijachi

The Chairman of Otukpo Local Government Area, Prince Maxwell Ogiri, has denounced the killing of a former Caretaker Chairman of the council, Udeh Ijachi.

Ogiri, in a statement issued on Friday by his Chief Press Secretary, Joshua Otene, described the incident as shocking and heartbreaking. He noted that the late Ijachi, popularly called Hon. Ukpem, was reportedly shot dead by unidentified gunmen on Thursday night in Otukpo.

According to the chairman, Ijachi was a well-known political figure who devoted his time and efforts to serving the people of Otukpo during his tenure as caretaker chairman of the local government.

He added that the bold nature of the attack, said to have taken place around the Okabido Hotel area of Otukpo, has further raised security fears among residents.

Ogiri condemned the killing in strong terms and urged security agencies to immediately investigate the incident and ensure the perpetrators are apprehended and prosecuted.

He reassured residents that the council, working with relevant security agencies, remains determined to safeguard lives and property, stressing that criminals will not be allowed to operate freely in Otukpo.

The council chairman also sympathised with the family of the deceased, the people of Ugboju, his hometown, and the entire Otukpo community over the loss, praying that God grants them the strength to cope with the tragedy.