Residents of the Ankpechi community in Oglewu District, Ohimini Local Government region, Benue State, were forced to evacuate on Thursday after suspected armed herders reportedly attacked the region.
The community, located along the Otukpo-Ogobia Road near Ondo-Ugboju in the Otukpo Local Government Area, was the scene of a similar attack earlier this week, which killed one and injured another.
Residents informed a reporter by phone that the attackers assaulted the neighbourhood about 8:00 a.m., blazing gunshots into the air and sending people fleeing for safety.
According to the residents, one individual was shot during the attack and sent to a hospital for treatment.
The intruders allegedly stormed into shops and food storage facilities and stole food goods.
A resident named Adole said he was at a neighbouring school when panic broke out as people ran in various directions.
“When the dust settled following the quick intervention of security operatives, it was discovered that one person sustained serious gunshot wounds, while food items were looted by the armed terrorists from shops within the area,” he stated.
Gabriel Adole, Chairman of Ohimini Local Government Area, confirmed the incident, saying the attackers stormed Ankpechi on Thursday morning.
“Yes, there was an attack this morning between 8 and 9 a.m. by armed herders.” They arrived at Ankpechi, Oglewu Ward, and began shooting sporadically.
“They shot one guy, and the community fled for safety. They broke into nearby establishments and stole products and food.
“That demonstrates that they reside extremely near to us. They came to attack and seize food from our communities. They were unable to purchase food, so they came to Ohimini and used force to obtain it.
“People noticed them; these were armed herders. As we speak, the individual they shot has been transported to the hospital, and we pray he survives.
“I informed the Governor about the issue, and security troops were immediately deployed to the area. “Many security personnel are present, and others are combing the surrounding bushes,” Adole stated.
As of the time of reporting this story, the Benue State Police Command had not publicly confirmed the occurrence.
Attempts to contact the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Udeme Edet, by phone and text message were unsuccessful.