Bloodshed on the way to church: Four killed, many missing in fresh Agatu herders' ambush

By Johnson Arua

No fewer than four persons were reportedly killed on Sunday morning when suspected armed herdsmen launched a deadly ambush on residents of Aila community in Agatu Local Government Area of Benue State.

The attack, which occurred at about 7 a.m., also left several others injured, while a number of victims are still missing, creating anxiety among residents and families.

Sources in the community said the victims were on their way to church when the assailants struck, taking them by surprise along the Aila-Odugbeho road.

A local resident, who did not want his name in print, said the attackers laid in wait before descending on the unsuspecting worshippers.

“They came out suddenly and attacked people going to church. It was around 7 in the morning. Some people were killed on the spot, others were injured, and some are still missing,” he said.

The source added that the incident threw the community into panic, with many residents fleeing for safety as gunmen reportedly retreated into nearby bushes after the assault.

Confirming the development, Chairman of Agatu Local Government Area, Mr. Melvin Ejeh, described the incident as a calculated ambush by suspected armed herdsmen.

“It was an ambush along the Aila-Odugbeho road. The attackers targeted people on the move rather than attacking the community directly,” he stated.

Ejeh explained that recent security improvements in the area had made it difficult for attackers to invade and occupy communities, prompting a change in tactics.

“Because of the strong security measures we have put in place, they can no longer overrun communities easily. That is why they now resort to ambush, which is more difficult to prevent,” he said.
He assured residents that security agencies had been mobilised to respond swiftly and prevent further attacks.

According to him “Clearance operations are ongoing in the surrounding forests to flush out the perpetrators and ensure the safety of our people.”

The council boss disclosed that the Divisional Police Officer, local vigilantes, and other security personnel were already on ground combing the area.

As of the time of filing this report, efforts to reach the Police Public Relations Officer for official reaction were unsuccessful, while the search for missing persons continued.