An All Progressives Congress (APC) youth leader from Comrade Jerry Jeremiah, and the District Head of Odugbeho in Agatu LGA, Chief Adejo Anthony Denison, both of Benue State, have been killed by gunmen while working on their farms.
The incident happened on Wednesday along the Otukpo-Otobi-Akpa Road in Otukpo Local Government Area, according to Daily Trust. The victims were said to be carrying out farming activities when they were attacked by the assailants.
Eyewitnesses disclosed that the farmland, although located in Otukpo LGA, is widely leased by people from surrounding areas, including Agatu, for agricultural use.
The killing took place just a day after another APC chieftain and six other individuals were murdered in separate attacks across Gwer East and Makurdi LGAs.
Chairman of Agatu LGA, Mavis James Ejeh, confirmed the death of the traditional ruler during a phone interview with journalists.
“Chief Tony Adejo was killed while working on his farm in Otobi by armed men. Despite this tragic incident, Odugbeho remains calm. We urge our people not to take the law into their own hands,” Ejeh said.
He advised residents of Agatu to exercise caution and work closely with security agencies, particularly when farming outside their local government area.
Reacting to the incident, former Vice Chairman of Agatu LGA, John Ikwulono, and a former government official, Olikita Ekani, expressed deep grief, describing the slain leaders as committed and influential figures in their communities.
As of the time this report was filed, the Police Public Relations Officer for the Benue State Command, CSP Catherine Anene, said she had not yet received an official report on the killings.
