Suspected gunmen have attacked Olegabulu community in Agatu Local Government Area of Benue State, killing a traditional ruler, his wife, their child, and several other residents.
The attack reportedly happened on Thursday night, leaving at least one other person injured and throwing the community into mourning.
The victims were identified as Chief Momo Alexander Awodi, the traditional ruler of Olegabulu, his wife Abigail Awodi, their son Boniface Ochowechi, as well as Mr Ochowechi Ochegwu and Mrs Deborah Ochowechi.
A local source said the attack may not be linked to herdsmen as initially suspected but could be connected to a communal clash, noting that tensions had existed between nearby communities.
The source added that some unidentified individuals were seen moving through the village square shortly before the attack and were even heard greeting residents in the Agatu dialect, which has raised confusion about the attackers’ identity.
The source said:
“Some people were seen passing through the village square and they greeted them in Agatu. That is why many are confused about what really happened.”
Residents also noted that Olegabulu had enjoyed relative peace for years before the sudden attack.
The Chairman of Agatu Local Government Area, Melvin Ejeh, described the incident as tragic and urged residents to remain calm.
He assured that security agencies have been mobilised and investigations are ongoing to identify and arrest those responsible.
He also called on the community not to take the law into their own hands, promising efforts to restore peace and prevent further violence in the area.
