By Amos Aar
OUTRAGE and fear gripped the town of Otukpo on Tuesday following a deadly attack on Asa community by armed men suspected to be herdsmen.
The assault, which took place Monday evening, resulted in killings and kidnapping of some residents, leaving the community in distress and prompting a massive protest, an eyewitness told National Record.
Residents, angered by the deteriorating security situation, took to the streets in protest, blocking major roads to demand urgent government intervention.
The attack in Asa community reportedly left several people dead, including one Mrs. Felicia Ochigbo, a nursing mother, who was killed in the Old NTA Area, and Mr. Onche Akatu, a retired Comptroller of Immigration, who was said to have been killed in Asa II community.
Additionally, two members of Mr Akatu’s family were abducted by the assailants, exacerbating the tension in the town.
The once-bustling streets of Otukpo are reportedly desolate due to panic, with businesses shutting down early and residents fearful of further violence.
This latest attack adds to a series of security challenges in Otukpo and surrounding areas, including Agatu, Apa, and Adoka, which have all suffered from recurring violence linked to suspected Fulani herdsmen.
Senator Moro Reacts
Reacting to the incident, Senator Abba Moro, representing Benue South senatorial district, condemned the attack in strong terms, calling for swift government action and urging security agencies to track down the perpetrators.
Moro also stressed the need for reinforced security measures to protect lives and property in the region.
In response to the escalating crisis, Benue State Deputy Governor, Sam Ode, visited Otukpo on Tuesday to commiserate with the grieving families and assure residents of the government’s commitment to their safety.
Ode, who hails from Otukpo LGA, met with the family of the late Akatu, the retired retired Comptroller of Immigration, who was brutally murdered by gunmen at his residence Monday night.
According to Mr Ior Kyereve, Chief Press Secretary to the deputy governor, Ode also held a closed-door meeting with key stakeholders, including the paramount ruler of the Idoma Nation, HRM Agabaidu Elaigwu John Odogbo, and security chiefs from the Army, Police, Civil Defence, and DSS.
The meeting, held at the Och’Idoma Palace, was aimed at strategizing on enhanced security measures to curb further attacks in the region.
Additionally, Ode paid homage to the Och’Otukpo, HRH John Eyimonye, expressing his condolences and reaffirming the state government’s resolve to bring the perpetrators to justice.
He urged security agencies to intensify surveillance and intelligence operations to restore peace in Otukpo and other affected communities.
As the people of Otukpo mourn their losses and anxiously await government intervention, the demand for swift and decisive action continues to grow.
Residents remain on high alert, hoping for improved security measures that will prevent further bloodshed and restore normalcy to their community.
