Gunmen have killed five people, including a traditional ruler and members of his family, in a late-night attack on the Olegabulu community in Agatu Local Government Area of Benue State.
The incident occurred around 8:00 p.m. on Thursday when the assailants reportedly stormed the community on motorcycles and launched a coordinated assault.
According to a local source, four attackers arrived on two motorcycles and gained access to the residence of the traditional ruler after exchanging greetings with residents in the local dialect, which initially raised no suspicion.
“They greeted people in our language, so no one suspected danger,” the source said. “But immediately they entered the compound, they opened fire. People started running for safety.”
The attackers allegedly shot the traditional ruler, his wife, and his son before moving to a nearby house, where two more individuals were killed. One other person sustained injuries during the attack.
The operation, according to residents, lasted over 20 minutes before the gunmen fled the scene.
Confirming the incident, the Chairman of Agatu Local Government Area, Melvin Ejeh, said five people were killed while one person was injured. He added that security personnel had visited the area.
“It is true that the incident occurred. Five individuals were killed and one person was injured,” Ejeh stated.
When contacted, the Police Public Relations Officer in the state, Udeme Edet, said she had yet to receive an official report on the attack but was expecting further details.
The latest violence has heightened concerns over security in the area, as residents call for urgent intervention to prevent further attacks.