Suspected herdsmen launched an attack on commuters along the Oweto-Apa-Adoka-Otukpo road in Benue State on Friday evening, kidnapping an unconfirmed number of travelers and leaving some dead.
The attack occurred between Asaba and Olojo, targeting truck drivers and other commuters traveling in both directions between Otukpo and Oweto.
According to eyewitness accounts, a commercial motorcyclist (Okada rider) transporting a casket to Agatu was killed during the attack. His motorcycle and the casket were left abandoned on the road alongside several trucks.
John Ikwulono, former Vice Chairman of Agatu Local Government Area, confirmed the incident to reporters but stated that the exact number of casualties remains unknown.
"Aside from the guy who was killed by the roadside, we don't know how many casualties at the moment. Gunshots were sporadic; I believe that was done to get down those who may be trying to escape," Ikwulono said.
Attempts to reach Catherine Anene, the Benue State Police spokesperson, for official comment were unsuccessful as she did not respond to calls.
This attack adds to the growing security concerns in Benue State, which has experienced repeated incidents of violence attributed to armed herdsmen in recent years.
Local authorities are yet to provide further details about rescue operations or the identities of those kidnapped as investigations continue.
