Dr. David Olofu, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) candidate for the Benue South senatorial seat, has called on authorities to bolster security measures for at-risk regions following recent violence in Otukpo Local Government Area. Olofu issued this appeal on Sunday after suspected armed herdsmen targeted the Apachi and Otukpo-Nobi villages located in the Okete District.
Highlighting the pattern of violence within his district, Olofu requested that security forces increase their protective operations and apprehend the perpetrators. He labeled the incidents as premeditated aggression, emphasizing that immediate government intervention is required to guarantee resident safety. He further extended his condolences to the grieving families.
According to Otukpo Local Government Chairman Maxwell Ogiri, the violence began with the deaths of two farmers in Apachi on Friday. Their remains were located and interred on Saturday. Despite local residents monitoring the surrounding territory, the gunmen launched a surprise assault on Otukpo-Nobi at approximately 4:00 a.m. on Sunday.
In response to these tragedies, local youths transported victims’ remains to the Och’Idoma’s palace as an act of protest. Ogiri noted that he is working to manage the situation and prevent retaliatory violence against civilians. Official records indicate that 10 individuals have died during these recent attacks, with many others suffering injuries. Security has since been upgraded in the region, and survivors are being relocated to secure areas.
