Tragedy struck as a commercial driver from Gboko in Benue State was reportedly mobbed and stoned to death by youths in Obudu Local Government Area of Cross River State amid escalating communal tensions between the neighboring states.
The victim, identified only as Tarnenge, was ambushed while transporting goods along the highway connecting the two states, becoming a casualty of the ongoing conflict that erupted on Friday between Abonkidi community in Obudu, Cross River State and Tsar Mbaduku of Vandeikya Local Government Area in Benue State.
According to Dr. Elijah Ikpaanor, a nephew of the deceased, Tarnenge was merely performing his duties as a commercial driver when he was attacked. "My nephew, Ternenge was a victim in the Obudu/Mbaduku crisis. As a driver, he conveyed goods for his passenger to Obudu but never came back. He was ambushed and mobbed to death," Ikpaanor explained.
Despite the brutal nature of the killing, which occurred outside the primary conflict zone, the victim's family has chosen restraint over retaliation. "In spite of the cruel and devastating manner that my nephew was killed out of the war environment, we restrained ourselves from revenge," Ikpaanor stated.
Community leaders have moved swiftly to prevent further escalation. The President General of Kunav United Development Association (KUDA), Deacon Emmanuel Tor Yaji, who previously served as President of Mbaduku Development Association (MDA), has joined with the Mbaduku Traditional Council in appealing for peace among youths and community members.
Authorities have implemented measures to maintain order, including a ban on roadblocks along the route from Vandeikya town to Obudu town. Local youths have been instructed to ensure free movement along this corridor to prevent further incidents.
"As the Vice President of Mbaduku Development Association and a victim, I have aligned with them on every resolution. As a family, we have submitted everything to the will of God. May the soul of our nephew and brother rest in peace," Ikpaanor added.
BenriNews attempted to reach the Spokesperson of the Benue State Police Command, DSP Udeme Edet, for official confirmation and details regarding the incident, but was unsuccessful at the time of this report.
The incident highlights the dangerous spillover effects of communal conflicts on innocent civilians and underscores the urgent need for comprehensive peace-building efforts in the border communities of Cross River and Benue states.
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