Gunmen launched a deadly attack on Olegabulu community in the Agatu Local Government Area of Benue State, killing a traditional ruler, his wife, son, and several members of his immediate family. The attackers stormed the community on Thursday night, April 23, 2026, leaving a trail of blood.
Victims Identified
Local sources confirmed that the victims include Chief Momo Alexander Awodi, the traditional ruler of Olegabulu; his wife, Abigail Awodi; and their son, Boniface Ochowechi. Other residents identified among the dead include Mr. Ochowechi Ochegwu and Mrs. Deborah Ochowechi.
Possible Motive
A resident revealed that the killers might be locals or individuals familiar with the terrain. "From what we are seeing, this does not look like a herdsman’s attack. Olegabulu is located between two communities, and there have been underlying tensions," the source said. "Some people were seen passing through the village square and they greeted them in Agatu. That is why many are confused about what really happened."
The Chairman of the Agatu Local Government Area, Hon. Melvin Ejeh, who confirmed the incident, described the killings as "tragic and devastating" and pleaded with grieving residents to avoid retaliatory violence. "I urge our people to remain calm and not take the law into their hands. Security agencies have been mobilized, and investigations are ongoing to identify and apprehend those responsible for this heinous act," the chairman said.
