A series of violent assaults by armed individuals believed to be herdsmen has left at least 18 people dead in the Otukpo Local Government Area of Benue State. The violence began on Friday in Akpachi village, where two farmers were murdered. This was followed by a more severe raid on Sunday morning in the Otukpo-Nobi community, which resulted in the deaths of 16 additional victims, including women and children.
These killings occurred shortly after the high-profile assassination of the Benue State chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association, Alhaji Ardo Risku Mohammed. Local officials, including Otukpo Council Chairman Maxwell Ogiri, suggested the recent violence may be a reprisal for the chairman’s death.
In response to the bloodshed, local youths carried the bodies of the victims to the palace of the Och’Idoma, blocking major roads and disrupting church services to demand immediate protection from the government. Protesters expressed deep frustration over the perceived inability of authorities to stop the incursions.
Governor Hyacinth Alia issued a statement condemning the violence as barbaric and unacceptable. He has ordered security forces to increase their presence and coordinate with neighboring regions to apprehend the perpetrators. While the state police command has not yet issued an official report, the governor has urged citizens to remain calm and cooperate with law enforcement to restore order.
