Suspected armed herders have killed four people in a fresh attack on Aila Odugheho in Agatu Local Government Area of Benue State. The incident occurred on Sunday morning, May 3, 2026, when the victims were walking along the Aila Odugheho road to a nearby village.
Resident Recounts the Attack
A resident identified as Danny Uloko told journalists that the suspected herders ambushed the victims on their way to the community. He said, “The victims were walking along Aila Odugheho road to a nearby community when the Fulani herders ambushed them and killed them.”
Uloko named the deceased as Ochefije Elijah Ojema, Igojuju Husaini, Odiya Ochowehi, and Ochoyoda Adejo.
Local Government Chairman Confirms Incident
The Chairman of Agatu Local Government Area, Melvin Ejeh, confirmed the attack. He explained that due to the presence of security operatives in the area, armed herders now find it difficult to invade some communities but have resorted to ambush tactics. “It's true the incident happened today (Sunday morning). Four of our people were killed,” he said.
Ejeh added, “Because of the robust security strategies we have put in place in the communities, it is now difficult to attack and overrun any community in Agatu Local Government Area. Hence, they have resorted to ambush, which is more complex to confront. However, clearance operations are currently ongoing to rid the community forest of bandits.”
Security Operations Underway
Ejeh further stated that security agencies, including the Divisional Police Officer and local vigilantes, were already in the area carrying out clearance operations to ensure the safety of residents and prevent further attacks.
