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Grief and Fear Grip Benue Communities as 9 Lives Lost in Ongoing Attacks
Benue State| TEC News| 6th August,2025
Communities in Agatu Local Government Area of Benue State are reeling from pain and fear following a series of tragic attacks that claimed the lives of at least nine people, including a police officer over the past few days.
The wave of violence, reportedly carried out by suspected armed men, began last Friday and extended through Tuesday, affecting several villages including Okwutanobe, Okpokpolo, Olegagbani, and Ikpele.
Local sources say the assailants, believed to cross into Agatu from neighbouring Kogi State, strike and then retreat across the border. One resident, who identified himself as Odeny, recounted the harrowing events to journalists.
According to him, “The attacks started on Friday at Okwutanobe, where two people were killed. On Saturday, they struck Okpokpolo and took one life. On Monday, they attacked Olegagbani, claiming another life. Then on Tuesday, they invaded Ikpele, killing a police officer and four more people.”
Confirming the incidents, Agatu Local Government Chairman, James Melvin, described the situation as deeply troubling. He stated that four individuals were killed across Okwutanobe, Okpokpolo, and Olegagbani, while five lives — including that of a security officer — were lost during the attack on Ikpele.
Melvin suggested that the attacks might be linked to alleged cattle rustling, which had earlier been reported by the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN).
“We totally condemn these attacks,” he said. “If this is a reprisal for the rustling complaint, we are appealing to those involved to allow the government to thoroughly investigate the matter instead of resorting to violence.”
While commending security agencies for their response, the council chairman also lamented the poor state of access roads in the region, which he said hinders timely intervention by security forces.
As residents mourn their loved ones and live in uncertainty, local leaders continue to call for calm, justice, and urgent intervention to prevent further loss of lives.
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