Herdsmen struck in Benue State again, Thursday evening, leaving at least four people dead.
The incident occurred in Akpete community, Apa Local Government Area of Benue State.
An undisclosed number of residents are reportedly missing.
According to eyewitnesses, the attackers emerged from surrounding bushes and began shooting indiscriminately at residents.
“They came from the bush and opened fire on anyone they saw.
“Four people were killed, some others were injured, and several people are still unaccounted for. Many believe the missing may have been abducted,” a resident who spoke on condition of anonymity told DAILY POST.
In the wake of the attack, soldiers were deployed to the area, but the assailants had already fled.
The incident has triggered panic among residents, with many fleeing Akpete to nearby Ugbokpo, the council headquarters.
Confirming the attack, Chairman of Apa Local Government Council, Mr. Adams Ochega, described it as unprovoked and deeply troubling.
“We have never had any conflict with the Fulani before now,” Ochega stated, adding, “this was a completely unprovoked assault.
"Four people were killed, others injured, and some are still missing. The attack began around 5 p.m., but by the time security operatives arrived, the attackers had already escaped.”
Ochega added that reinforcements were being brought in from Makurdi to strengthen security in the area, including mobile police units and additional soldiers, to prevent further violence and restore calm.