Benue: Two women allegedly raped in Apa community attack

Renewed violence has claimed the lives of two residents in Apa Local Government Area of Benue State following separate attacks on Sunday.

The incidents were reported in Edikwu G’Icho, Ole-G’ijamu, and Ukpogo communities after suspected armed herders allegedly stormed the areas.

Locals, who requested anonymity, disclosed that one of the victims was a pastor who was on his way home from church when he was ambushed and killed.

They further alleged that two women were sexually assaulted during the invasion.

The victims were said to have been taken to a medical facility where they are currently receiving care.

Sources also revealed that youths in Oiji swiftly organised themselves and managed to drive back the attackers, preventing the situation from escalating.

Confirming the development, the Chairman of Apa LGA, Adams Ocheiga, stated that the fatal attack occurred at Edikwu Ward 11 on Sunday.

He said, “Two people were ambushed and killed at Edikwu Ward 11 yesterday, while Oiji was attacked this morning but repelled immediately by vigilant youths.”

Efforts to obtain a reaction from the spokesperson of the Benue State Police Command, DSP Udeme Edet, were unsuccessful, as calls to her mobile phone went unanswered and text messages had not been replied to as of the time this report was filed.

Several communities across Benue State have continued to experience recurring attacks attributed to suspected armed herders, resulting in deaths and injuries.

In recent weeks alone, reported killings have occurred in Kwande, Otukpo, Ohinmini, Logo, Guma, and now Apa Local Government Area.