The Benue State Police Command has confirmed a deadly attack in Agatu Local Government Area, where a traditional ruler and three other persons were killed by suspected gunmen.
The victims include Chief Alexander Awodi, the district head of Olegabulu community, and his wife, Abigail Awodi.
Spokesperson of the command, Edet Udeme, confirmed the attack in an interview in Makurdi.
She said two additional individuals were also killed during the incident, bringing the total number of fatalities to four.
Udeme stated that security agencies have begun a full investigation to identify and apprehend those responsible.
According to local accounts, the assailants arrived on motorcycles and initially blended in with residents by speaking the local dialect.
A community source revealed that the attackers engaged people in casual conversation, raising no suspicion before carrying out the assault.
Shortly after entering the monarch’s residence, they opened fire, forcing residents to flee.
Eyewitness reports indicate that the gunmen operated in the area for nearly 20 minutes.
After killing the traditional ruler and his wife, the attackers moved to another house where two more people were shot dead and one person injured.
The assailants fled the scene before security operatives arrived.
The incident has heightened fear among residents of Agatu, an area already known for recurring security challenges.
Authorities have assured the public of efforts to restore calm and prevent further violence.
