By Uche Nnorom, Makurdi
At least nine persons have been confirmed killed, with several others injured, following attacks by armed bandits on Edikwu–Ankpali in Apa Local Government Area of Benue State.
The Chairman of Apa LGA, Adams Ogwola, confirmed the incident to our correspondent in a message on Monday, stating that the attacks occurred on Sunday.
According to him, one person was killed in Ikobi, while another was killed in Adija.
However, a local source provided a higher casualty figure, claiming that the attacks took place on both Friday and Sunday, leaving a total of 13 persons dead.
The source said three persons were killed on Friday, while 10 others were killed on Sunday.
“Youths are currently in the bush recovering more bodies. Also, a mobile police officer was killed in Upu, Otukpo LGA, on Saturday,” the source added.
Meanwhile, the lawmaker representing Apa/Agatu Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Pastor Ojotu Ojema, has condemned the late Sunday night attack on Edikwu–Ankpali community, allegedly carried out by suspected Fulani herdsmen.
Ojema, who is the Chairman, House Committee on National Inland Waterways, described the attack as barbaric and senseless, noting that it underscores the persistent security challenges facing communities in the constituency and Benue State at large.
In a statement issued by his media aide, Ekani Olikita, the lawmaker expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives and extended condolences to the families of the victims and the affected community.
He decried the recurring wave of violent attacks in Apa and Agatu LGAs, saying the continued bloodshed has led to widespread fear, hardship, and displacement among residents.
Ojema called on security agencies to take urgent and decisive action to halt the killings, stressing that the situation has persisted for too long without a sustainable solution.
“It is unacceptable that our people continue to live in fear, unable to access their homes and farmlands, and are subjected to repeated attacks without adequate protection. Security agencies must rise to their responsibilities and end these killings once and for all,” he said.
The lawmaker also urged the Federal Government to address the root causes of insecurity in Benue State and ensure that perpetrators are apprehended and brought to justice.
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