Monarch, One Other Killed as Armed Herders Attack Otukpo Again

The District Head of Odugbeho in Agatu Local Government Area of Benue State, Chief Anthony Adejoh, has been killed by suspected armed herders during another violent invasion in Otukpo.

The tragic incident occurred Wednesday afternoon at Otobi-Akpa in Otukpo LGA, where Chief Adejoh and another victim, identified as Jerry John, were reportedly working on their farms when they were ambushed and shot by the assailants. Eyewitnesses said locals who heard gunfire rushed to the scene only to find the two men already dead.

Confirming the attack, Chairman of Agatu LGA, Mr. Marvis Ejeh, said the monarch was murdered around 10 a.m. by armed herders who invaded the farming settlement. He described the late Chief Adejoh as a respected peace builder and dedicated leader who served his community with distinction.

Despite the shock and grief, Mr. Ejeh urged residents to remain calm and not retaliate, emphasizing that the attack did not occur within Agatu territory. “Odugbeho community is calm, our people are calm because we will not take laws into our hands,” he said.

He advised Agatu indigenes farming or living in other local government areas to remain vigilant and engage with local authorities for updates on safe zones, as efforts continue to tackle insecurity across Benue South Senatorial District, also known as Zone C.

When contacted for comment, Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Catherine Anene, stated that she had not yet received official reports on the incident.