One dead in fresh Benue herder attack

One person died in a fresh attack by suspected armed herders on the Ondo community in the Ogboju District of Benue State, Nigeria. The assailants invaded the community early Tuesday, firing shots and causing residents to flee to the neighboring Oyangede community.

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The herdsmen stormed our community around 6 a.m. today and shot sporadically, which made people flee to the neighbouring Oyangede community.

Local youths mobilized and pursued the attackers, preventing them from causing more widespread damage, though one person was killed. Otukpo Chairman Maxwell Ogiri confirmed the death and stated that security agencies are actively searching the forest for the perpetrators. He described the situation as calm, noting that the swift response from security forces deterred further violence.

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But youths in the area mobilised themselves and went after the invaders. This prevented the assailants from wreaking havoc; nevertheless, one person was killed.

This incident follows a deadly attack on Otukpo Nobi just two days prior, where residents reported 16 deaths. However, official statements from the state command spokesperson indicated eight fatalities and five injuries in that earlier attack. The spokesperson could not be reached for comment on the latest incident.

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