Benue: One killed as suspected herdsmen attack another Otukpo community

One person has been killed in a fresh attack by suspected armed herdsmen on Ondo community in Ugboju District, Otukpo Local Government Area of Benue State. The incident, which occurred Tuesday morning, forced residents to flee their homes amid indiscriminate gunfire, heightening fears over the deteriorating security situation in Benue South.

This latest assault follows closely on the heels of a deadly invasion of the Otukpo-Nobi community, also in the same local government area, where over 18 people were reportedly killed less than 48 hours prior. Residents described the attackers storming Ondo community in the early hours, firing shots and causing panic as villagers sought refuge in safer locations.

While the full extent of casualties and property damage remains unverified, the attack has intensified fear among residents already traumatized by the recent spate of killings. Chairman of Otukpo Local Government Area, Maxwell Ogiri, confirmed the incident, stating that security operatives responded swiftly to a distress call.

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There is crisis in Ondo, but it is not too much. It was repelled after the loss of an indigene.

"There is crisis in Ondo, but it is not too much. It was repelled after the loss of an indigene," Ogiri said. He added that combined security forces are currently combing the forest in search of the perpetrators. "The situation is calm now because when the attackers saw that security agencies responded immediately, they retreated."

The Police Public Relations Officer for Benue State Command, DSP Udeme Edet, stated that she had not yet received full details of the attack but promised an update after gathering information from officers on the ground.

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The situation is calm now because when the attackers saw that security agencies responded immediately, they retreated.