Many killed, others injured as suspected herdsmen attack another Benue community

Gunmen have perpetrated yet another series of deadly attacks in two local government areas of Benue State, resulting in the tragic loss of five lives and the abduction of a woman.

The violent incidents unfolded across Agatu and Gwer West LGAs, with additional reports of multiple injuries in Apa LGA, according to residents.

In Agatu LGA, locals reported that armed assailants launched an attack on Ikpele village on Sunday evening. The assault claimed the lives of four individuals, with one person gruesomely beheaded and three others suffering amputations.

Another attack occurred in Gwer West LGA, resulting in the tragic loss of one person. The combined casualties from the Sunday invasions in both LGAs reached five, with several others sustaining injuries.

Meanwhile, in Apa LGA, armed assailants kidnapped a woman during a siege on the Otukpo-Adoka-Oweto highway. Additionally, they shot an individual in the leg and targeted vehicle tires during the incident. The attacks persisted along the same highway into Monday.

Ochayi Alidu, the Council Chairman of Apa LGA, confirmed the harrowing attacks and assured that efforts were underway to address the situation.

Expressing deep concern over the escalating violence in Idoma land, Joseph Adakole, a humanitarian worker, highlighted the resulting casualties, destruction of property, and displacement of villagers.

Yakubu Ochepo, the Council Chairman of Agatu LGA, emphasized the urgent need for enhanced security support to repel these brazen attacks. He lamented the recent invasion of Ikpele village, where armed herders from Ogumogbo ambushed villagers returning home after previous assaults, resulting in tragic fatalities, injuries, and property loss.

Efforts to obtain a comment from the State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Catherine Anene, regarding these distressing incidents were unsuccessful as of the time of filing this report.