Tragedy in Benue: District Head of Odugbeho K!lled by Suspected Armed Herdsmen

 

In a heartbreaking incident, the District Head of Odugbeho in Agatu Local Government Area of Benue State, Chief Anthony Adejoh, was killed on Wednesday, May 7, by suspected armed herdsmen.

Chief Adejoh was attacked alongside another man, Jerry John, while they were working on their farms at Otobi-Akpa, a community in Otukpo LGA. According to reports, armed herders stormed the area and opened fire on them. Their lifeless bodies were later found by locals who rushed to the scene after hearing gunshots.

The Chairman of Agatu LGA, Mr. Marvis Ejeh, confirmed the killings, stating that the attack happened around 10 a.m. He said:

“I can confirm to you that the district head of Odugbeho, Chief Tony Adejoh, has been killed. He was killed by some armed herdsmen while working on his farm at Otobi in Otukpo LGA of the state.”

Mr. Ejeh described the late Chief as a man of peace and a strong community leader who will be deeply missed:

“He was a peace builder, an astute community builder, and a community leader who would be greatly missed by all.”

Despite the devastating news, the Agatu Chairman assured the public that the community is calm and there will be no violent response:

“Despite hearing this ugly news, Odugbeho community is calm, our people are calm because we will not take law into our hands.”

“Nobody is taking the law into their hands, there is no need for a reprisal attack because the incident did not happen at home. Agatu is calm and peaceful.”

He also used the opportunity to advise all Agatu indigenes, especially those farming outside the LGA, to be extra careful:

“Agatu people residing and farming in other LGAs should be careful and watchful.”

“They should liaise with the local authority and know the areas that are safe to work for now, since the government is trying to curb the issue of insecurity in the entire Benue South District or Zone C.”