Gunmen Attack Benue Community, Kill Traditional Ruler, Wife, Child

Suspected assailants have reportedly attacked Olegabulu community in Agatu Local Government Area of Benue State, killing a traditional ruler, his wife, their child, and other residents.
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‎One person was also injured in the attack, which has thrown the community into mourning.
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‎The victims were identified as Chief Momo Alexander Awodi, the traditional ruler of Olegabulu, his wife, Abigail Awodi, and their son, Boniface Ochowechi. Others reportedly killed include Mr Ochowechi Ochegwu and Mrs Deborah Ochowechi.
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‎Sources said the attack may not be linked to herdsmen as initially feared, but could be a communal clash.
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‎It was revealed that some unfamiliar individuals were seen moving through the village square shortly before the attack and were heard exchanging greetings in the Agatu dialect.
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‎Newsbuka gathered that the community has enjoyed relative peace for a long time, with no record of such violent attacks in recent years.
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‎Olegabulu is located close to the hometown of the current Chairman of Agatu Local Government Area, Melvin Ejeh.
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‎Speaking on the development, the Agatu LGA Chairman, Hon. Melvin Ejeh, described the incident as tragic and devastating, calling for calm among residents.
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‎He assured that the local government, in collaboration with security agencies, is working to restore peace and prevent further escalation of violence in the area.
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