At least two people, including a pastor, have been killed in fresh attacks by suspected armed herdsmen on rural communities in Benue State, local sources said.
The violence occurred over the weekend in Apa Local Government Area, with gunmen storming villages such as Edikwu Icho, Oiji and Ole-Gijamu, opening fire on residents and causing panic. One of the victims a pastor returning from church was ambushed and shot dead during the attack, while another man, identified as Ngbede Okpe Agabaidu, was also killed.
Eyewitnesses said the attackers struck early in the afternoon, catching villagers off guard and sparking fear as sporadic gunshots echoed through the communities. Some women were reportedly raped during the raids, and several people were injured and taken to hospital for treatment.
Local youths mobilised quickly on Monday morning, repelling a subsequent assault on Oiji community with support from security personnel to prevent further casualties. The Chairman of Apa LGA, Adams Ocheiga, confirmed that the initial ambush left two people dead and said authorities are collaborating with security agencies to forestall more violence.
The attacks have deepened concerns over continued insecurity in parts of Benue, where farming and rural communities have been frequently targeted in recent months by herders and other armed groups, forcing many families to flee their homes.
Officials have yet to release a detailed statement, and police spokespersons were not immediately available for comment at the time of reporting.
Post a Comment