Makurdi, Benue State – Panic gripped residents of Ankpechi community in Oglewu Ward, Ohimini Local Government Area of Benue State, on Thursday after suspected armed herders reportedly invaded the area, shooting sporadically and looting several provision stores.
The attackers, who reportedly stormed the community along the busy Otukpo–Oweto–Abuja Road, caused residents to flee for safety as gunshots echoed through the area. Witnesses said the assailants moved through parts of the community, targeting shops and business premises where they carted away food items, beverages, and other valuables.
Residents described the incident as terrifying, saying many people abandoned their homes and businesses to escape the attack. Although the extent of casualties was not immediately clear at the time of filing this report, community members said the invasion disrupted commercial activities and left many families in fear.
A local resident, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the gunmen arrived unexpectedly and began shooting into the air and at different locations, forcing traders to abandon their shops. According to the resident, several provision stores were broken into and looted before the attackers fled the area.
The latest attack has heightened concerns over the security situation in parts of Benue State, where communities have repeatedly come under attacks linked to suspected armed herders and other criminal groups. Residents have continued to call on the Federal Government and security agencies to intensify efforts to protect lives and property in the state.
Community leaders appealed for the immediate deployment of additional security personnel to prevent further attacks and restore confidence among residents. They also urged the government to provide relief for victims whose businesses were affected by the invasion.
As of the time of this report, the Benue State Police Command had yet to issue an official statement on the incident or confirm whether any arrests had been made. Security operatives were reportedly deployed to the affected community to assess the situation and prevent a recurrence.
The attack is the latest in a series of security incidents that have plagued rural communities in Benue State, underscoring the urgent need for sustained efforts to address the recurring violence and improve security across the region.
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