By By Elizabeth Ugbo
Suspected armed herders attacked the Ondo community in the Ogboju District of Otukpo Local Government Area, Benue State, on Tuesday morning, killing one resident, forcing villagers to flee, and prompting combined security agencies to launch a forest manhunt for the attackers.
Residents Flee as Gunmen Invade Community
The attackers reportedly stormed the community at about 6 a.m. and opened fire indiscriminately, causing panic among residents.
Many villagers escaped to the neighbouring Oyangede community to seek safety.
A resident, who identified himself simply as Sunny, said the gunmen invaded the community early in the morning and fired repeatedly, forcing everyone to flee.
“They stormed our community around 6 a.m. and shot sporadically. People had no choice but to run to Oyangede for safety,” he said.
Youths Resist Attack
The Chairman of Otukpo Local Government Area, Maxwell Ogiri, confirmed the incident during a telephone interview with journalists.
According to him, local youths quickly mobilised and confronted the attackers, preventing them from causing greater destruction.
“There is a crisis in Ondo, but it was quickly repelled after the loss of one indigenous resident,” Ogiri said.
“The youths pursued the invaders, preventing them from wreaking further havoc. Unfortunately, one person lost his life.”
Security Agencies Begin Forest Operation
Ogiri disclosed that combined security agencies have launched a coordinated operation to track down the fleeing attackers.
He said security operatives are combing nearby forests while maintaining a strong presence in the area.
“The combined security agencies are combing the forest in search of the bandits. The situation is calm because security personnel responded immediately,” he added.
Police Yet to React
Efforts to obtain a reaction from the Benue State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Udeme Edet, proved unsuccessful as she could not be reached at the time of filing this report.
Attack Follows Deadly Otukpo Assault
The latest incident occurred only two days after another deadly attack on Otukpo Nobi in Otukpo Local Government Area.
Some residents claimed that 16 people died during Sunday’s attack.
However, the Benue State Police Command disputed the figure.
In an earlier statement, DSP Udeme Edet said eight people were killed, while five others sustained varying degrees of injuries.
