From Scholastica Hir, Makurdi
Gunmen suspected to be herdsmen have reportedly attacked two communities of Mbatsada in Mbalom and Mbasombo Council Wards in Gwer East Local Government Area (LGA) of Benue State, killing a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and three others.
Our correspondent gathered that the chieftain, identified as Akaabo Johnson, and the others were killed when the herders invaded the communities at about 4:35 pm on Tuesday and started shooting sporadically without provocation.
The chairman of GwerEast LGA, Mr Timothy Adi, confirmed the incident in a telephone message he sent to newsmen in Makurdi on Wednesday.
He condemned the attack, describing it as a tragic incident.
Adi, who stated that the attack was unprovoked, wondered why Mbalom and Mbasombo council wards would still be visited by heavily armed herdsmen militias when residents are busy going about with their farming activities.
He noted that he, in the company of the personnel of the Nigerian Army, has visited the area to assess the situation and secure the boundary lines of the local government in a bid to prevent further attacks.
He stated that four dead bodies have been recovered so far and evacuated to St. Gregory Hospital, where they were deposited in the mortuary.
Adi expressed deep sorrow over the loss and extended deep condolences to the bereaved families and the entire Gwer-East community.
He also commended the state governor, Rev Fr Hyacinth Alia, for his prompt intervention and timely support, especially the facilitation of the rapid deployment of security forces to contain the situation.
He said, “I want to thank the Nigerian Army and other security personnel who were on the ground during the incident for their efforts in restoring calm.
“I therefore urge residents, particularly the youth, to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to relevant security agencies.
“We must remain united and steadfast. This attack is a tragedy, but we will not allow fear to rule us. Governor Alia is not resting, and plans are underway to put an end to these unprovoked attacks.”
He assured that the local government council under his leadership would continue to collaborate closely with security agencies to restore peace and ensure the safety of all residents.