AfriqueCAN
REPORTS from Benue State indicate that two fishermen have lost their lives after suspected herdsmen attacked Agatu Local Government Area of the state.
Imanche Paul Moses of Ologba Community and Umaru Gejeh of Enungba Community, were reportedly ambushed on Monday, while carrying out fishing activities at a farm near Obishu.
Chairman of Agatu Local Government Council, James Melvin Ejeh, who confirmed the incident, condemned the attack, saying it was a gruesome and barbaric killing of innocent indigenes.
“This heinous and barbaric act is unacceptable. It is a direct attack on the peace and security of our communities,” he stated.
Ejeh, however, commended security agencies for their swift response to the incident, noting that their prompt intervention helped reduce the casualty level. He called on security operatives to intensify efforts to track down and apprehend those responsible for the attack.
According to him, decisive and sustained security action is necessary to prevent further assaults and restore confidence in vulnerable communities across the local government.
The chairman disclosed that the Agatu Local Government Council is already collaborating with relevant security authorities to strengthen security presence in identified flashpoints and ensure the protection of lives and property.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to safeguarding residents, assuring that proactive measures are being taken to forestall future occurrences.
Ejeh also extended condolences to the families of the deceased and the entire Agatu community, describing the loss as painful and unfortunate.
He urged residents to remain calm, vigilant, and law-abiding, while encouraging them to cooperate with security agencies by providing credible information that could aid ongoing investigations.
