- According to reports, the attack was not unconnected to the lingering communal crisis between Egba/Ologba and Abugbe/Agbaduma
At least ten people lost their lives when some persons attacked Omukwidi and Edeje communities in Agatu LGA in Benue State.
The attackers, who are said to be Aila youths, invaded the communities on Sunday evening leaving in their wake tales of death and destruction.
No fewer than 18 houses were also burnt and many missing during the attack on the neighbouring communities.
According to reports, the attack was not unconnected to the lingering communal crisis between Egba/Ologba and Abugbe/Agbaduma.
Aila community claims Omukwidi and Edeje of joining hands with Egba youths in harassing their people on the roads and farms.
Aila community is also divided into two family lineages, with one affiliated to Abugbe and the other affiliated to Agbaduma.
A witness who spoke in confidence with newsmen confirmed the incident, saying there was a gun battle between the youths of the two warring enclaves.
He said; “We were sitting under trees in our village of Aila when we started hearing gunshots from the direction of Omukwidi and Edeje.
“Our youths mobilized themselves and went towards the direction. There was an exchange of gunfire between our youths and Omukwidi/Edeje youths, leading to the death of many and the burning of houses in the two communities.”
The mmediate past Chairman of Agatu LGA, Hon Joseph Ngbede, who also hails from Edeje, confirmed the incident.
“We cannot really pinpoint those responsible for the attack this night but we will know tomorrow. So far, the attackers succeeded in burning 18 houses in my community of Edeje”, Ngbede said