Suspected armed herdsmen have launched a deadly assault on Otobi community in Akpa District of Otukpo Local Government Area, Benue State, leaving several residents feared dead and numerous homes razed. The attack reportedly began around 5 p.m. on Sunday.
Eyewitnesses said the attackers stormed the village without warning, opened fire on residents, and set houses ablaze, forcing hundreds to flee into nearby bushes and neighboring settlements.
John Ada, a resident who narrowly escaped the carnage, described the incident as horrifying. “The armed herdsmen invaded Otobi. Those fleeing have recovered three bodies so far, but the actual death toll is likely much higher because gunshots are still being heard and people are still running,” he told reporters by phone.
Another survivor, Edwin Emmanuel, issued a desperate plea for help: “We are under severe attack. My wife and children are fleeing the community as I speak. Please, call for help.”
The incident has thrown the district into chaos, sparking widespread panic. Hon. Kennedy Angbo, member of the Benue State House of Assembly representing Otukpo-Akpa Constituency, confirmed the attack, stating that he had received distress calls from fleeing constituents.
“Many have been killed, but we cannot confirm the exact number yet. The situation is dire, and I call on security agencies to respond swiftly,” Angbo said.
Otukpo Local Government Chairman, Maxwell Ogiri, who is currently in Abuja, also confirmed the attack. “I received calls this evening that Otobi community is under heavy attack by armed herders. I have directed my aides to immediately mobilise security personnel to the area,” he said.
Efforts to reach the Benue State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Catherine Anene, were unsuccessful at the time of this report.
Benue State remains one of Nigeria’s most impacted regions by persistent herder-related violence. Rights groups and community leaders continue to urge federal authorities to take stronger, more proactive measures to end the ongoing bloodshed and displacement.
