From Scholastica Hir, Makurdi
Gunmen suspected to be herdsmen militia have, again, attacked two communities, Ikpele and Okpokpolo, in Agatu Local Government Area, (LGA) of Benue State and killed two people.
Daily Sun gathered that the renewed attack took place around 10pm, on Tuesday.
Barely a week ago, herdsmen unleashed terror on Okokolo community, also in Agatu LGA, killing five people, including two soldiers, a personnel of Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, (NSCDC) and two other people.
A source from the community, who identified himself as Oche Hyacinth, said: “Another attack happened yesterday’s night. They attacked Ikpele and Okpokpolo and other places throughout yesternight and we are yet to get the exact number of people killed.
“There was a serious battle till around 10pm in the night. Two bodies have, so far, been recovered. Many houses were burnt. In fact, within the attacked community, yesternight, at least 17 burnt houses were counted. People have deserted their homes and are seeking shelter in neighbouring towns and villages,” Oche said.
Speaking to newsmen in Makurdi on phone, former Commissioner for Information, Culture and Tourism, Mike Inalegwu, said the incident was true.
“The truth is that yesterday, the armed herdsmen attacked Okpokpolo village and killed two persons, while the villagers were thinking of their speculative attack on the Ogbai community.
The tension is high and the seven villages in Kogi border of the local government are deserted. This is authoritative,” Inalegwu informed.
When contacted, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Benue State Command, SP Catherine Anene, said she did not have the information. Meanwhile, the Special Adviser to Governor Hyacinth Alia on Security and Internal Affairs, Chief Joseph Har, confirmed the attack. He, however, said they were not told that people were killed.