Suspected herdsmen have reportedly attacked Agatu Local Government Area of Benue State, killing two fishermen in a fresh wave of violence in the area.
The victims, identified as Imanche Paul Moses of Ologba Community and Umaru Gejeh of Enungba Community, were said to have been ambushed on Monday, while carrying out fishing activities at a fadama farm near Obishu.
Confirming the incident to DAILY POST, the Chairman of Agatu Local Government Council, James Melvin Ejeh, condemned what he described as a gruesome and barbaric killing of innocent indigenes.
The council chairman described the attack as a direct assault on the peace, unity, and security of Agatu people, stressing that such acts of violence against hardworking residents would not be tolerated.
“This heinous and barbaric act is unacceptable. It is a direct attack on the peace and security of our communities,” he stated.
Ejeh, however, commended security agencies for their swift response to the incident, noting that their prompt intervention helped reduce the casualty level. He called on security operatives to intensify efforts to track down and apprehend those responsible for the attack.
According to him, decisive and sustained security action is necessary to prevent further assaults and restore confidence in vulnerable communities across the local government.
The chairman disclosed that the Agatu Local Government Council is already collaborating with relevant security authorities to strengthen security presence in identified flashpoints and ensure the protection of lives and property.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to safeguarding residents, assuring that proactive measures are being taken to forestall future occurrences.
Ejeh also extended condolences to the families of the deceased and the entire Agatu community, describing the loss as painful and unfortunate.
He urged residents to remain calm, vigilant, and law-abiding, while encouraging them to cooperate with security agencies by providing credible information that could aid ongoing investigations.
