Gunmen suspected to be armed herdsmen have once again attacked Otobi-Akpa community in Otukpo Local Government Area of Benue State, killing at least four residents during a coordinated midnight assault.
The attack reportedly occurred around 12:00 a.m. on Tuesday when the assailants, said to be heavily armed, stormed the community and began shooting sporadically, triggering panic and forcing residents to flee into surrounding bushes and neighbouring areas for safety.
Eyewitnesses said the attackers operated for several hours without resistance, moving through parts of the community as frightened residents hid or escaped under the cover of darkness. By the time calm returned, four people had been confirmed dead.
The victims were identified as Hon. Ochi Ayedu, Eje Uzu, Alinko, and Achibi.
As of the time of filing this report, several other residents were still unaccounted for, raising fears that the casualty figure could rise as search efforts continue.
Community members said many families have been displaced, with women and children seeking refuge in nearby villages.
This latest attack has reopened fresh wounds in Otobi-Akpa, which suffered a similar deadly assault just months ago.
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During that incident, at least 13 people were reportedly killed, many others injured or declared missing, and more than 50 houses were destroyed, leaving the community in ruins.
Residents have expressed deep concern over the recurring violence, accusing security agencies of failing to provide adequate protection despite repeated attacks on the area.
Community leaders are once again calling on the Benue State Government and federal authorities to deploy more security personnel and take decisive action to prevent further bloodshed.
Efforts to reach the police and other security agencies for official confirmation and details on arrests or ongoing operations were unsuccessful as of press time.