At least six people have been reported dead and several others injured following two separate attacks by armed herdsmen on the Iwari and Olegahbane communities in Agatu Local Government Area, LGA, of Benue State.
A local source, who requested anonymity, revealed that the attacks took place on Friday evening. The assault on Iwari community resulted in one fatality, while five people were killed in the Olegagbane community.
The source noted that Agatu communities have recently faced frequent attacks by marauders, who strike intermittently and then retreat. On Friday, the armed herdsmen attacked Iwari, killing one person and injuring several others. The same day, they also targeted Olegagbane, resulting in five deaths and multiple injuries, with no apparent provocation.
“In their usual style, after attacking the communities they disappeared but the people saw that they were armed herdsmen.”
Contacted, the Chairman of Agatu LGA, Mr. Phillip Ebenyakwu who confirmed the development expressed concern over the ongoing attacks in the area.
He said: “It is true, the situation has been confirmed. “The attackers come, kill, steal, loot, and then flee. I do not know their motives, but these attacks are unbearable. I am in communication with security agencies, and they are working on it.”
The Chairman who lamented the impact of the attack said over 2,000 persons had been displaced from about seven affected villages pointing out that he was facing a challenge managing the affected persons.
“The number of the displaced people is overwhelming, though the State Emergency Management Agency, SEMA, did provide some relief materials, it was not sufficient.”
The Police Public Relations Officer, Superintendent, SP, Catherine Anene said she was yet to receive information on the development.