Fresh Violence Erupts In Benue As Armed Herders Attack, Loot Shops

Suspected armed herders on Thursday stormed Ankpechi community in Oglewu Ward, along the Otukpo-Oweto-Abuja Road in Ohimini Local Government Area of Benue State, shot at residents and looted several provision stores.

The attackers were said to have stormed the area and fired sporadically forcing residents, including traders and customers, to flee for safety.

Confirming the incident, the Chairman of Ohimini Local Government Area, Mr Gabriel Adole, said the attackers were suspected armed herdsmen.

“Yes, there was an attack this morning between 8am and 9am by suspected armed herdsmen. They came to Ankpechi community in Oglewu Ward, shooting sporadically. They shot one person, forcing residents to scamper for safety.

“They burgled shops in the area and carted away goods, particularly food items. This tells you that they are operating very close to our communities. They could not get food elsewhere, so they came into Ohimini and used force to take food from our people.

“The residents identified them as armed herdsmen. The victim who was shot has been taken to the hospital, and we are hopeful that he will survive,” Adole said.