by Nigerian News24 Correspondents
Suspected armed herders have killed four people, including a woman and her son, in separate attacks on Egwuma and Ogbai communities in Agatu Local Government Area of Benue State.
The incident, which occurred on Wednesday, also left two residents missing, according to local sources. A resident of Egwuma, who identified himself as Inalegwu, said the assailants invaded the villages and attacked unsuspecting farmers.
Confirming the development, the Chairman of Agatu LGA, Melvin James, condemned the killings, describing them as “senseless and barbaric.” He said, “A mother and her son were killed while working on their farm in Egwuma, while two others were murdered in Ogbai.”
James commended security operatives for their efforts but noted that poor road conditions hampered swift response. He explained that the attacks occurred while security personnel were patrolling other parts of the LGA.
When contacted, the spokesperson for the Benue State Police Command, SP Catherine Anene, said she had yet to receive the official report as she was on tour. Similarly, the governor’s Special Adviser on Security and Internal Affairs, Joseph Har, said he was awaiting confirmation from the council chairman.