At Least Six Killed As Gunmen Attack Benue Communities

No fewer than six individuals were reportedly killed by gunmen suspected to be bandits in a recent attack in Benue State.

Naija News learnt that the murder was carried out in two separate assaults within the Agatu Local Government Area of the state.

It was gathered that one fatality occurred in the Iwari community, while the remaining five were killed on Friday in Olegagbane.

A resident who wished to remain unnamed stated that the armed assailants targeted the Iwari community yesterday, resulting in one death and multiple injuries.

“On Friday, August 23, 2024, the gunmen also struck Olegagbane community, killing five individuals,” the individual told Daily Trust.

Confirming the attack, the Chairman of Agatu LGA, Phillip Ebenyakwu, said, “It’s true. Confirmed. These armed invaders kill, steal, loot and then flee. Their motives remain unclear, but they continually return to attack and kill. The situation has become unbearable.”

Ebenyakwu also expressed regret about the challenges in managing displaced persons from the affected communities.

He said, “We currently manage over 2,000 displaced individuals from seven, possibly nine, deserted villages. The number is overwhelming, and although the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) provided some relief materials, it wasn’t enough.”

However, the state police command has yet to issue any official statement regarding the attacks.