Eight people were killed on Saturday by suspected terrorists in some villages in Agatu Local Government Area of Benue State.
According to reports, this was the third attack in two weeks by armed herders on Agatu communities, leaving troops and civilians dead.
The affected villages, Ogwumogbo, Ikpele, and Ejima, were deserted by residents who fled to the forest for safety.
A local resident, who spoke anonymously, said the attack lasted from 12 pm to 4 pm on Saturday.Godwin Edoh, the lawmaker representing Agatu State Constituency, confirmed the incident to reporters on Sunday.
He said, “It’s true, these attackers invaded three communities of Ogwumogbo, Ikpele, and Ejima on Saturday between 12 and 4 pm, and they sacked the people; eight people were killed in this latest attack, and several people are still missing.
“Despite all our efforts, the killings have persisted. No one is coming to our aid and the governor is quiet. I do not understand this.”
The previous attacks occurred on January 18 and 23, 2024, resulting in the deaths of five people, including three security personnel.
Major General Sunday Igbinowanhia, the Force Commander of Operation Whirl Stroke, OPWS, said the troops fought back the terrorists for three hours and repelled them.
He said, “Three deceased comprised of two soldiers and one Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps personnel were recorded, and two other soldiers were wounded and receiving treatment at the Nigerian Air Force hospital in Makurdi.”
Mike Inalegwu, a former Commissioner for Information, Culture, and Tourism from the LG, also confirmed the second attack that killed two people.
The Police Public Relations Officer, SP Catherine Anene, said she had no information about the latest attack.