There was pandemonium on Monday in Kogi as suspected herdsmen in separate attacks on Agbenema, Aj’Ichekpa, Opada and Iyade villages killed ten persons, including a traditional ruler, the Onu Agbenema, Musa Edibo; his wife while several houses were also burnt down.
Agbenema is in Omala Local Government Area of Kogi State.
The attackers who were allegedly armed with sophisticated weapons hid in the bushes around these villages from where they reportedly launched deadly attacks on their targets.
According to the natives, the herdsmen whose mode of operation is to set the houses ablaze and open fire on the fleeing inhabitants, allegedly slit victims’ throats and cut off their vital parts.
The natives who would not want their names in print stated that the administrator of Omala LGA, Ibrahim Aboh, was lucky to have escaped from the attackers.
Also, the houses of former chairman, Adofu Stephen; and that of his parents were burnt.
Residents said soldiers who were drafted to curtail the herdsmen’s rampage allegedly refused to assist them to repel the suspected herdsmen.
“We were surprised when we approached the soldiers who were stationed at the Guest House at Abejukolo for assistance.
“They refused to act professionally, as they used their vehicle to block us from advancing to the troubled spot to help our people.
“They have razed down Ojuwo Ajomayeigbi, Iyade, Agbenema and Opada villages.
“We want the world to come to our assistance before they exterminate and inherit our land.”
When contacted, the Police Public Relations Officer of the state command said he was yet to be briefed by the DPO in Omala.
He promised to get back with details.
