From Attah Ede, Makurdi
Again 15 people have been killed with several others sustaining various degree of injures, in a renewed attack by suspected armed herdsmen in Ogwumogbo and Okpo’okpolo communities in Agatu Local Government Area (LGA) of Benue State.
According to a source, the attack started on Saturday evening and continued into Sunday morning, two weeks after a similar assault in Otobi-Akpa community in Otukpo LGA, where a district head of Agatu living in Otukpo local government area with seven others lost their lives.
The source who spoke to our correspondent on phone on condition of anonymity said fifteen (15) persons were killed in Ogbayi and Ogwumogbo communities respectively.
“There was a small stream there, called Abekoko, one Ali from Ogwumogbo and 14 others whose names were not known yet, were killed”.
“Our farming communities is now deserted, with residents fleeing to neighboring areas in search of safety.
“The situation is dire, especially for women and children, who are urgently in need of assistance.
“We call on Benue State Governor, His Excellency, Rev. Dr. Fr. Hyacinth Alia as well as security agencies, to kindly swing into action to put an end to this unfortunate massacre of our people by criminal herders”, the source said.
The Executive Chairman of Agatu Local Government Council, could not be reached for comment.
However, a closed aide to the council chairman told newsmen on phone that his principal could not be reached because he was far away attending the burial of those killed by the herders.
The Aide who spoke on condition of anonymity said the situation is pathetic, painful and a distraction of the peace currently being enjoyed in Agatu area.
“My chairman is pained over this latest killing because it was uncalled for, since the relative peace and tranquility in our area since the beginning of year.
“I can confirm to you that 15 people were killed in Ogbayi and Ogwumogbo communities in Agatu by armed herders.
The chairman of Agatu Local Government Council Mr. Melvin James Ejeh who later confirmed the incident, said he was speechless.
“I’m too emotional to speak on this incident. This is the first time we are witnessing this, since I became Chairman; I’m a sad Chairman
“The attack was unprovoked. I thank the Benue State Governor Rev Fr. Hyacinth Alia for his quick intervention and also the security personnel who have been drafted to area to forestall further attack”, the Aide said.
When contacted the chairman of Miyietti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria(MACBAN) Benue State chapter, Mohammed Risku, said he was in meeting and promised to back.
When contacted, Benue State Command Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), CSP Catherine Anene, said the command is yet to receive any report concerning the attack.
