Pastor, one other killed in fresh unknown gunmen attacks on Benue communities
By Khubayb Adefaka
As the people ran, they laid ambush and killed two persons. A pastor who was returning from church was among those killed in the ambush,” the eyewitness disclosed.
Apa, Benue State — At least two persons, including a pastor, have been killed following fresh attacks by unknown gunmen on communities in Benue State’s Apa Local Government Area.
The two-day assault, which targeted Oiji, Ojantelle and Edikwu communities, left several residents injured and forced many others to flee their homes amid fears of further violence.
A local source said the attackers first struck Edikwu Icho on Sunday at about 1:45 p.m., catching residents off guard as they reportedly shot sporadically and created panic across the community.
“As the people ran, they laid ambush and killed two persons. A pastor who was returning from church was among those killed in the ambush,” the eyewitness disclosed.
The second victim, identified simply as Ngbede, was allegedly shot at close range during the attack.
The source further alleged that some women were raped during the invasion, while several injured victims were rushed to a hospital where they are receiving treatment.
The attackers reportedly returned on Monday, launching another assault on Oiji community. However, local youths, supported by security personnel, were said to have repelled the assailants.
“And today, Monday, they launched another attack on Oiji but met stiff resistance from the youths of the area who were supported by local security personnel,” the source added.
Confirming the incidents, Chairman of Apa Local Government Area, Adams Ocheiga, said two persons were ambushed and killed on Sunday in Edikwu Ward 11.
“Two people were ambushed and killed at Edikwu Ward 11 yesterday, while Oiji was attacked this morning but repelled immediately by vigilant youths,” Ocheiga stated.
He assured that the council was collaborating with security agencies to prevent further attacks and restore calm in the affected communities.
Efforts to obtain a response from the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Udeme Edet, were unsuccessful as calls and messages were not returned as of the time of filing this report.
