Several communities in Agatu Local Government Area (LGA) of Benue State, an area long plagued by herdsmen-related violence, have once again been thrown into turmoil following deadly attacks that claimed the lives of seven farmers between Wednesday and Thursday morning.
According to local sources, the violence began on Wednesday when suspected herders forced residents off their farms in the Obagaji community. The attacks escalated in the early hours of Thursday as coordinated assaults were carried out on Ogwumogbo and Okpokpolo communities.
Agatu LGA has endured repeated outbreaks of violence linked to herders over the years, resulting in widespread displacement and the disruption of agricultural activities, a key livelihood for many residents.
A resident speaking with SaharaReporters described the situation: “The Fulani herdsmen chased people from their farms in Obagaji yesterday. Early this morning, they invaded Ogwumogbo and Okpokpolo and killed seven people.”
Another local expressed deep concern, saying, “There is no peace in Agatu, contrary to what some may believe. We desperately need help.”
When contacted, the Benue State Police Public Relations Officer, Catherine Anene, acknowledged that Agatu has been facing severe security challenges. However, she noted that she could not yet confirm the reported fatalities and would provide more information when available.
This latest incident follows a previous attack reported in April, where two Nigerian Army officers and seven civilians lost their lives during an assault by suspected herders on the Jato-Aka community in Kwande LGA, also in Benue State.
The ongoing violence has left residents in fear, with many fleeing their homes in search of safety amid increasing insecurity in the region.
