Gunmen on Thursday night launched a deadly attack on Olegabulu community in Agatu Local Government Area of Benue State, killing a traditional ruler, his wife, son and two other residents.
The assailants, said to have struck around 8pm, reportedly rode into the community on two motorcycles before heading straight to the residence of the monarch, where they opened fire on him and members of his household.
A resident, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the attackers initially blended in with locals by exchanging greetings in the native dialect, creating no suspicion among villagers.
According to the source, the situation turned tragic moments later when the gunmen stormed the monarch’s home and began shooting, forcing residents to flee in panic.
“The attackers were not suspected at first because they spoke our language and greeted people. But immediately they entered the traditional ruler’s house, they started shooting. Everyone ran for safety,” the source said.
He added that the attackers operated in the area for about 20 minutes before moving to a neighbouring house, where they killed two more persons. One other resident was said to have sustained injuries during the attack.
Confirming the incident on Friday, the Chairman of Agatu Local Government Area, Melvin Ejeh, said five persons lost their lives while one victim was injured.
“It is true. Five people were killed and one person was injured. Security operatives have visited the scene,” he stated.
However, the Police Public Relations Officer in the state, DSP Udeme Edet, said she had yet to receive an official report on the incident as of the time of filing this report.