Tension Grips Benue as Suspected Herdsmen Attack Leaves 15 Dead in Otukpo
By Ichie Times
Fear has gripped parts of Otukpo Local Government Area of Benue State following a deadly attack on Efeyi community in Ugboju District, where several residents were reportedly killed and others injured.
The attack, which reportedly began around 5am on Tuesday, continued for several hours, forcing residents of the affected community and neighbouring areas to flee their homes for safety.
A community source alleged that security agencies were slow to respond despite the prolonged attack, leaving residents vulnerable as the attackers reportedly moved through the area.
The Chairman of Otukpo Local Government Area, Maxwell Ogiri, confirmed that an attack occurred in Efeyi but said he was awaiting detailed security reports to establish the exact casualty figure.
Ogiri disclosed that injured victims were being taken to the Federal University Teaching Hospital, Otukpo, after receiving initial treatment at a local health facility.
He described the incident as part of a troubling pattern of attacks on communities in the area and expressed concern over the growing fear among residents.
The council chairman also called for stronger enforcement of Benue State’s Open Grazing Prohibition and Ranches Establishment Law, arguing that legislation would have limited impact without effective enforcement.
The latest attack comes amid renewed concerns over the security of rural communities in Benue, with residents calling for stronger protection and faster intervention whenever attacks occur.
Ogiri also expressed concern that the attacks were occurring despite the presence of several security formations in the local government, including the military, police and other security outfits.
As of the time of filing this report, the Benue State Police Command had not issued a detailed official statement on the incident. The command’s spokesperson, DSP Udeme Edet, said she would respond after obtaining further details.
The reported casualty figure remains subject to official confirmation as security agencies continue to assess the situation.
