The traditional ruler of the Olegabulu community in the Agatu Local Government Area of Benue State, Chief Momo Alexander Awodi, his wife, Abigail Awodi, his son, Boniface Ochowechi, and two other residents were reportedly killed on Thursday night following an attack by suspected gunmen.
The incident, which adds to the rising number of recent killings in the state, was confirmed by the Agatu LGA Chairman, Hon. Melvin Ejeh.
Others killed in the attack include a resident couple, Mr Ochowechi Ochegwu and Mrs Deborah Ochowechi. One additional person was also alleged to have been injured during the incident, which has plunged the community into mourning.
While speaking on the attack, Ejeh described it as tragic and devastating, calling for calm among residents.
“This is a very sad and devastating incident. I urge our people to remain calm and not take the law into their own hands. Security agencies have been mobilised, and investigations are ongoing to identify and apprehend those responsible for this heinous act,” he said.
ALSO READ: McGill law students write Lagos CP Fatai, demand end to “sham trial” of Soweto, Frank
A source in the area, who spoke to Daily Post on condition of anonymity, suggested the attack may not be linked to herdsmen as initially feared, but could instead be a communal clash.
“From what we are seeing, this does not look like a herdsman attack. Olegabulu is located between two communities, and there have been underlying tensions,” the source said.
He further revealed that unfamiliar individuals were seen moving through the village square shortly before the attack and were heard exchanging greetings in the Agatu dialect.
“Some people were seen passing through the village square and they greeted [residents] in Agatu. That is why many are confused about what really happened,” the source added.
He noted that the community has enjoyed relative peace for a long time, with no record of such violent attacks in recent years.
“There has never been this kind of attack in Olegabulu for many years. The community has been peaceful, which makes this incident even more shocking,” he said.
While calming frayed nerves after the incident, Ejeh assured residents that the local government, in collaboration with security agencies, is working to restore peace and prevent further escalation of violence in the area.