Tragedy struck in Ubune-Ivbiaro Community, Edo State, as gunmen ambushed and killed Danjuma Emokpaire, a middle-aged farmer, on his farm. The assailants struck as Emokpaire was leaving his farm after a day’s work, leaving the community in shock and fear.
Residents, speaking anonymously, revealed that Emokpaire had mentioned his plans to plant yam seedlings on that fateful Friday. Concerns arose when he failed to return home on Saturday morning, prompting a search that led to the grim discovery of his lifeless body. The scene suggested Emokpaire was attacked and killed while on his motorcycle, with no signs of struggle evident.
Abdul Saliu Emokpaire, a family member and member of the local vigilante group, confirmed the tragic incident and stated that the deceased’s body had been brought home for burial in accordance with Islamic rites. He called for urgent intervention from security agencies and the Edo State Government, as fear now grips the community, hindering farmers from tending to their lands.
READ ALSO: BREAKING: Terrorists Strike Again, Kidnap Students In Sokoto
Reports indicate previous attacks on farmers in the community, including an incident where suspected gunmen assaulted farmers and pillaged their crops. The situation has escalated concerns among residents, who fear for their safety during the crucial farming season.
The Afuze Divisional Police Headquarters confirmed the incident, with officers deployed to the community to gather crucial information for investigations. The Public Relations Officer of the Edo State Police Command, Chidi Nwabuzor, pledged to escalate the matter to the State Commissioner of Police, CP Funsho Adegboye, for swift action.
The tragic event rekindles memories of past atrocities, including a harrowing incident where gunmen raped a married woman in the presence of her husband on a farm.
