Suspected armed herdsmen have launched a deadly attack on Otobi community in Akpa District of Otukpo Local Government Area, Benue State, leaving several residents feared dead and properties destroyed in a fiery onslaught that began at about 5pm on Sunday.
It was gathered that the attackers stormed the village unexpectedly, opening fire on residents and setting homes ablaze.
Meanwhile, the assault sent hundreds fleeing into surrounding bushes and neighbouring communities.
A resident, John Ada, who managed to escape, described the situation as horrific.
“The armed herdsmen invaded Otobi and those fleeing recovered three corpses, but the casualty figure will be far more than that, because they are still shooting and people are fleeing. It is a troubling situation,” he told reporters via telephone.
Another survivor, Edwin Emmanuel, narrowly escaped with his life. “We are under severe attack by herdsmen. My wife and children are fleeing from the community, as I speak. Please call for help,” he said in a desperate plea.
The attack has sparked fear and chaos across the district. Hon. Kennedy Angbo, the lawmaker representing Otukpo-Akpa State Constituency in the Benue State House of Assembly, confirmed the development, noting that an unconfirmed number of people had been killed.
“I have received reports from constituents fleeing the community. They say many have died and the attack is still ongoing. This is a sad moment for our people, and I urge security agencies to respond swiftly,” Angbo said.
Council Chairman of Otukpo Local Government, Maxwell Ogiri, who is currently in Abuja, also confirmed the assault. He revealed that he had directed aides in the area to immediately mobilise security agents.
“Yes, the attack by herders on Otobi community is confirmed. I am not around. I am in Abuja. This evening, my aides called to inform me that Otobi community was under severe attack, and that the attack was still ongoing,” Ogiri stated.
“I have directed my aides around the axis to mobilise security personnel on my behalf to the area. As I speak with you, security agents are being drafted to the area.”
Efforts to reach the Benue State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Catherine Anene, were unsuccessful at the time of filing this report.
Benue State has been one of the epicenters of repeated attacks by suspected herders in recent years, with local communities often left devastated and displaced.
Human rights groups have long called for more robust intervention from federal authorities to end the cycle of violence.
