At least four residents were killed in a midnight attack on Otobi-Akpa community in Otukpo Local Government Area of Benue State, following an assault by gunmen suspected to be herdsmen.
The attackers, reportedly heavily armed, stormed the community around 12:00 a.m. on Tuesday, firing sporadically and forcing residents to flee their homes in search of safety.
Sources from the area said the assault lasted for several hours, creating panic and confusion among villagers who ran into nearby bushes to escape the gunfire.
Those killed in the attack were identified as Hon. Ochi Ayedu, Ezu, Alinko, and Achibi. As of the time of filing this report, several other residents were still missing, raising fears that the death toll could rise.
This latest incident comes barely months after a similar attack on the same Otobi-Akpa community, during which no fewer than 13 people were killed, many others injured or declared missing, and over 50 houses destroyed.
Residents say repeated attacks have continued despite previous assurances of improved security in the area, leaving the community vulnerable and fearful.
As of press time, security agencies are yet to issue an official statement on the incident, while efforts were ongoing to account for missing persons and restore calm to the community.
