At least four people have been confirmed dead following a fresh attack by suspected armed herders in Benue State, deepening concerns over persistent insecurity in the region.
The incident occurred in Aila Odugheho community, located in Agatu Local Government Area, where the victims were reportedly ambushed while moving along a rural road on Sunday morning.
A local resident, identified as Danny Uloko, said the victims were heading to a nearby settlement when the attackers struck unexpectedly.
“The victims were walking… when the Fulani herders ambushed them and killed them,” he said.
The identities of those killed were given as Ochefije Elijah Ojema, Igojuju Husaini, Odiya Ochowehi, and Ochoyoda Adejo, all believed to be residents of the area.
Confirming the incident, the Agatu Local Government Chairman, Melvin Ejeh, acknowledged that four people lost their lives in the attack. He explained that increased security presence in parts of the council has forced attackers to change tactics.
“It is true… four of our people were killed,” he said.
Ejeh added that rather than launching large-scale invasions, the assailants now rely on surprise ambushes due to ongoing security operations in the area.
Meanwhile, the police in the state said they were yet to receive full details of the incident at the time of reporting. The Police Public Relations Officer noted difficulties in reaching local officers for immediate confirmation.