The recent attacks on the Ikpelle and Egwuma communities in Agatu Local Government Area of Benue State are deeply concerning. Gunmen reportedly assaulted these communities between Thursday and Friday, resulting in the tragic deaths of two residents. In addition to the loss of life, numerous homes were set ablaze, and displaced residents, mainly farmers and fishermen, now face an uncertain future.
Local voices, such as Joseph Adakole, have raised alarms about the potential for further devastation if immediate security interventions are not made. The Chairman of Agatu, Melvin Ejeh, has expressed profound sadness over the attacks and the looting that occurred, calling for calm while reassuring residents that efforts are underway to bring a long-term solution to the crisis. His administration has already appealed for the deployment of security forces and plans to prioritize the rebuilding of the affected communities.
Despite the severity of the incident, the state police command has yet to release an official statement. This attack highlights the ongoing security challenges in rural parts of Benue State, especially with recurring conflicts involving cattle rustlers and local communities.
The Chairman of Agatu, Melvin Ejeh, expressed sadness over the attack during a conversation with journalists in Makurdi, saying, “I have just been sadly informed of an attack on Egwuma community of Ogwule Ogbaulu Ward which led to the burning of some houses and looting of livestock and properties worth millions of naira by suspected cattle rustlers.
“I sympathize with the people of Egwuma and its environs and call for calm as we work non-stop to bring a lasting solution to this age-long crisis. We have called for the immediate deployment of security officials to the area to restore peace, but we are working on a long-term solution that will come to fruition soonest.
“My administration would prioritize and ensure the rebuilding of communities and the safe return of every Agatu citizen back home. Agatu is our home, and no one would live as a displaced citizen in their ancestral home.”
However, the state police command has not issued any official statement regarding the events.
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