At least two people have been killed following an attack by gunmen on Egwuma community in Agatu Local Government Area of Benue State. The violent incident, which occurred between Thursday and Friday, also saw several homes set on fire.
Local sources revealed that the affected residents, mostly farmers and fishermen, have been displaced by the attack. The gunmen, suspected to be cattle rustlers, also looted livestock and properties worth millions of naira.
Melvin Ejeh, Chairman of Agatu LGA, expressed deep sorrow over the assault when speaking with reporters on Saturday in Makurdi. "I have been sadly informed of the attack on Egwuma community in Ogwule Ogbaulu Ward. Houses were burned, and properties looted by suspected cattle rustlers," he said.
Ejeh called for calm, assuring the community that his administration is working tirelessly to resolve the ongoing crisis. “We have requested the immediate deployment of security forces to restore peace. A long-term solution is in progress, and we are committed to rebuilding the affected communities,” he added.
The Agatu leader vowed to ensure the safe return of all displaced residents to their ancestral lands, emphasizing that Agatu is their home and that no one should live as a displaced person in their own land.
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