Suspected herdsmen have launched coordinated attacks in Benue State's Agatu and Apa Local Government Areas on Tuesday evening, resulting in multiple fatalities despite recent security assurances from military authorities.
In Agatu LGA, Sunday Dutse, a native of Odejo and younger brother to a former chairman of the local government, was killed along the Odugbeho-Ogbaulu road. BenriNews gathered that Dutse had been previously displaced from his community during an earlier herdsmen attack and was taking refuge in Ogwule-Kaduna, also in Agatu LGA.
Earlier the same day, a separate attack occurred in EdikwG'Icho, a community in Apa LGA, where three youths were ambushed and killed. Two of the victims reportedly hailed from EdikwG'Icho, while the third was from Ugbokpo.
Attacks Defy Security Promises
These deadly assaults come despite the recent visit by top military authorities to the region, including the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), who had promised increased security measures in troubled parts of the state. The continued violence raises questions about the effectiveness of current security strategies in the area.
Benue State has long been a flashpoint for farmer-herder conflicts, with communities in Agatu and Apa frequently experiencing violent attacks that have led to loss of lives, displacement of residents, and destruction of property.
As of the time of this report, security agencies have yet to issue an official statement regarding the attacks or measures being taken to apprehend the perpetrators and prevent further violence in the affected communities.
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