Key Takeaways
- At least three people have been killed in fresh attacks by armed invaders in Ohimini Local Government Area of Benue State.
- Two persons were injured, and several cows were rustled, while a motorcycle was stolen during the attacks.
- Security personnel have been deployed to the affected communities, and local vigilantes have been mobilised to complement security efforts.
The attacks, which occurred between Friday and Saturday, have caused widespread concern among residents, with many calling for increased security presence in the area. Chairman of Ohimini LGA, Gabriel Adole, confirmed the incidents, stating that the gunmen first struck Elulu community on Friday, killing one person and stealing a Bajaj motorcycle.
The same group later invaded Agadagba community, where they met resistance from residents and local vigilantes, who reportedly shot one of the attackers in the leg. The group retreated without the livestock but returned on Saturday, killing two more residents and bringing the death toll to three.
According to Adole, security personnel have been deployed to the affected communities, and local vigilantes have been mobilised to complement security efforts in tracking the attackers. He expressed confidence that the perpetrators would not be allowed to force residents out of their ancestral homes.
Security Response
Governor Hyacinth Alia has directed the mobilisation of community vigilantes to strengthen security, and the chairman has assured residents that the vigilantes are on the ground, accessing areas that are difficult for conventional security operatives. The chairman added, "We will not allow these marauders to drive us out of our land".
Meanwhile, residents reported separate incidents of armed men attacking Ogoli and Igblagidi in Ugboju on Saturday, where three persons sustained gunshot injuries, and several cows were rustled. The Police Public Relations Officer for Benue command, DSP Udeme, had yet to respond to calls or messages as of the time of filing this report.
Why This Matters
The attacks on communities in Ohimini Local Government Area of Benue State are a cause for concern, as they highlight the need for increased security presence in the area to protect residents and their livelihoods. It is essential for the authorities to take swift and decisive action to address the security challenges facing the communities. The ability of armed men to carry out such attacks with impunity underscores the urgency of the situation, and the need for a comprehensive response to prevent further loss of life and property.