By Winnie Onu, Makurdi
Gunmen have killed a traditional ruler, his wife, son and two others in Olegabulu community, Agatu Local Government Area of Benue State.
A local source said that the attackers, who rode on two motorcycles, stormed the monarch’s residence on Thursday night and opened fire on him and members of his family before proceeding to a neighbouring house where two more persons were killed.
“The assailants spoke our dialect and even exchanged pleasantries when they arrived, so no one suspected danger. Moments later, they entered the house and started shooting. People ran in all directions,” the source said, adding that the attackers operated for about 20 minutes and left one person injured.
Chairman of Agatu LGA, Melvin Ejeh, confirmed the incident, stating that five persons were killed while one sustained injuries.
Ejeh said security personnel had visited the scene.
Reacting, the Senator representing Benue South and Senate Minority Leader, Abba Moro, condemned the killings and lamented the continued attacks on communities in his district.
Moro, who recently sponsored a motion on the spate of violence in Benue South at the Senate, said the situation remained worrisome and called on federal and state governments to take urgent steps to halt the bloodshed and protect lives and property.
The senate minority leader also commiserated with families of the victims, assuring them of his support while urging authorities to act decisively to prevent further attacks.
