A Tuesday evening attack by suspected armed herdsmen on the Otobi Akpa community in Benue State resulted in at least 13 fatalities, numerous injuries and missing persons, and the destruction of over 50 homes
[dropcap]A[/dropcap]t least 13 people were killed, several others injured or missing, and over 50 houses destroyed following an attack on the Otobi Akpa community in Benue State on Tuesday evening.
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Reports indicate that the violence erupted around 6:00 p.m. near Otobi Junction when suspected armed herdsmen launched an assault on the town. Eyewitness accounts describe sporadic gunfire that triggered widespread panic, forcing residents to flee for their safety.
Tragically, many individuals were caught in the crossfire and lost their lives, while others sustained injuries and were transported to medical facilities.
Local sources suggest that the absence of community vigilantes, many of whom had traveled to a neighboring village for a burial, may have contributed to the attackers’ unimpeded entry into the area.
Residents reported that the assailants used firearms and machetes during the attack, targeting individuals in their homes and those attempting to escape.
So far, at least 13 bodies have been recovered and taken to the mortuary, with the search for missing persons still ongoing.
Community elder Adikwu Ogbe expressed deep sorrow over the incident, highlighting that Otobi Akpa has historically been a peaceful part of Idoma land with a long history of coexisting with herding communities.
However, he noted that recent tensions have escalated due to open grazing practices and related security concerns. This incident follows a reported killing of a security guard at the Otukpo Dam in the area just three weeks prior.
As of the time of reporting, there was no visible presence of security personnel in Otobi Akpa. Consequently, many residents have begun relocating to safer neighboring areas, with a significant number currently seeking refuge at the Federal Government College in Otobi.
Benue State Deputy Governor, Sam Ode, along with a team of security operatives, visited the affected community to offer condolences to the victims and assess the extent of the damage.
He assured the residents that the government is taking measures to prevent further violence and restore peace to the area.
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The atmosphere within the Otobi Akpa community remains highly tense, and residents continue to flee their homes due to the persistent fear of additional attacks.
Peculiar Adirika is a journalist and contributor to Freelanews.com, covering news, business, and public affairs.
