A fresh attack by suspected armed herders has claimed the life of one person in Ondo community, located in the Ogboju District of Otukpo Local Government Area of Benue State, reigniting security concerns in the area.
Residents said the attackers stormed the community in the early hours of Tuesday, firing sporadically and forcing villagers to flee to the neighbouring Oyangede community for safety. A resident, identified simply as Sunny, said local youths quickly mobilised and confronted the assailants, preventing what could have been a more devastating assault. However, one resident was killed during the attack.
Chairman of Otukpo Local Government Area, Maxwell Ogiri, confirmed the incident, describing the situation as having been brought under control following the swift intervention of security personnel and local youths.
According to him, combined security agencies have launched a search operation in nearby forests to track down the fleeing attackers. He added that calm has since returned to the affected community after security operatives responded promptly to the distress call.
The latest incident comes just days after another deadly attack in Otukpo Local Government Area, where several residents were reportedly killed, underscoring the persistent security challenges facing parts of Benue State. Authorities have assured residents that efforts are ongoing to prevent further attacks and bring those responsible to justice.
