Herdsmen attack commuters on Benue highway, leave 1 dead, several abducted

A tragic scene unfolded Friday evening along the Oweto-Apa-Adoka-Otukpo road in Benue State, as armed men suspected to be herdsmen ambushed commuters in a deadly and brazen attack.

The incident occurred between the Asaba and Olojo axis of the highway, a stretch known for its heavy vehicular movement. Eyewitnesses reported that multiple travelers, including truck drivers and motorists, were abducted during the chaos.

Among the casualties was a local Okada rider (commercial motorcyclist), who was reportedly transporting a casket to Agatu when he was shot and killed. His motorcycle, along with the casket, was found abandoned at the scene, surrounded by several deserted trucks and vehicles, pointing to the scale of the assault.

John Ikwulono, a former chairman of Apa Local Government Area, confirmed the attack, describing it as yet another sign of deteriorating security conditions in the region.

“Aside from the guy who was killed by the roadside, we don’t know how many casualties at the moment. Gunshots were sporadic; I believe that was done to get down those who may be trying to escape,” he said.

As of the time of reporting, efforts to contact the Benue State Police Public Relations Officer, Catherine Anene, were unsuccessful as calls to her phone went unanswered.

(DAILY POST)