Gunmen have attacked Ikpelle and Egwuma community in Agatu Local Government Area of Benue State, leaving two people dead and many homes set ablaze.
The incidents, which occurred between Thursday and Friday, also left several families displaced.
According to residents, the attacks targeted the predominantly farming and fishing communities situated in the rural riverine areas of Agatu.
Those who fled the violence are now left homeless, with many of their properties destroyed.
Speaking to reporters, Joseph Adakole, a community member, expressed fears that the villages might be entirely wiped out unless security forces act swiftly.
Also speaking on the incident, the Chairman of Agatu Local Government Area, Melvin Ejeh, lamented the destruction and loss caused by the attackers, believed to be cattle rustlers.
He disclosed that homes were burned and livestock stolen in the Egwuma community of Ogwule Ogbaulu Ward. Properties worth millions of naira were also looted during the raid.
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“I sympathise with the people of Egwuma and nearby areas, and I urge them to remain calm as we work to bring a lasting solution to this crisis,” Ejeh said while addressing journalists in Makurdi.
“We have called for the immediate deployment of security personnel to restore peace in the area, and we are working towards a long-term solution to end this conflict.”
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