Three farmers have been confirmed killed following a recent assault perpetrated by suspected herdsmen in the rural farming communities of Entekpa and Idabi in Benue State.
Alfred Omakwu, Chairman of the Otukpo Local Government, revealed this to Channels Television via telephone.
According to him, the assailants struck first at Entekpa village, claiming the life of one farmer, before proceeding to Adoka’Icho in Idabi village, where two more farmers fell victim to the violence.
He revealed that Entekpa, comprising nine villages, now lies deserted, allowing the attackers unhindered movement within the area.
“In the course of the weekend, armed herdsmen mercilessly took the lives of three of our people. The initial attack occurred in Entekpa, resulting in the loss of one farmer.
“Subsequently, the assailants targeted Adako’Icho in Idabi village, claiming the lives of two more farmers diligently tending to their fields,” Omakwu stated.
Urging swift intervention from federal and state authorities, the chairman reiterated the urgent need for bolstered security measures in the region to stem the tide of violence.
He lamented over the mass exodus of communities at a time when farmers should be preparing for the upcoming planting season.
“These relentless attacks have plagued us since the onset of the season. We implore both the federal and state governments to expedite the deployment of security forces to quell these assaults,” Omakwu pleaded.
