Suspected Herdsmen Kill 13 In Benue

No fewer than thirteen persons have been killed by suspected herdsmen following a renewed attack on Ikpele and Olegomachi villages of Agatu Local Government Area of Benue State.

A community leader who spoke on the killing, said, “The violent attack which happened yesterday evening is the second time they have been attacked by suspected herdsmen in the last twelve days.

In a telephone call with our correspondent, the community leader and former Vice Chairman of Agatu Local Government Area, John Ikwulono, confirmed that about thirteen corpses were counted by the time the dust settled in the latest incident, while two people were killed in the previous attack.

The Agatu Council Chairman, Phillip Ebenyakwu, confirmed the attack to journalists in Makurdi.

He said, “Yes, it’s confirmed. There was an attack. They gave me a list of 10 persons killed. The attackers were armed with sophisticated weapons, they were looting, robbing and burning houses and killing people”.

“About seven houses were burnt down, they carried so many properties and animals – goats and fowls were carted away. It has been reported to police. The DSS is aware too. I’m trying to ensure that security men visit the place. Arrangement is being made for them to visit the place.”

The Police Public Relations Officer, Superintendent of Police, Sewuese Anene in her reaction to questioning over the latest killings says, she was yet to receive any reports on the matter from the Agatu Divisional Officer.