Benue: Suspected herdsmen kill one, abduct another in Egwuma, Agatu

Tension has engulfed Egwuma community in Agatu Local Government Area of Benue State following a deadly attack by suspected Fulani herdsmen on Tuesday evening.

Local sources told newsmen that two men were ambushed while returning from Olegomachi to Egwuma. One of the victims was reportedly shot dead on the spot, while the second remains missing as of the time of filing this report.

Residents say the attackers have occupied significant portions of Egwuma land since October 1, 2024, when military personnel stationed in the area were withdrawn.

The community has since remained exposed to frequent attacks, with many residents displaced and unable to access their farmlands.

“This is not the first time. Since the soldiers left last year, our people have been living in fear. The Fulani have taken over our farmlands, and now they are killing our people,” a community elder, who spoke on condition of anonymity, told our correspondent.

The residents are calling on the government and security agencies to urgently intervene and restore peace to the troubled area.