Tragic End: Benue Businessman Killed by Herdsmen Despite N5.5m Ransom Payment

A horrifying tragedy has rocked Akor village in the Nzorov Council Ward of Guma Local Government Area, Benue State, as a prominent farmer and businessman, Mr. Terzungwe Shaku, was brutally murdered by suspected armed herdsmen after his family paid a N5.5 million ransom to secure his release.

The heartbreaking incident has plunged the community into fear, forcing residents of Akor and neighboring villages to flee their homes, fearing further attacks from the marauders.

A Family’s Nightmare

According to a close family source who wished to remain anonymous, Mr. Shaku, who narrowly escaped death in a herdsmen attack early last year, was kidnapped a few days before the New Year while at his business premises.

The source recounted, “They initially demanded N10 million for his release, but after negotiations, the family managed to raise and pay N5.5 million. Tragically, after delivering the ransom at the designated spot, his family members heard gunshots as they left.

“When they rushed back, they found his lifeless body. The herdsmen not only took the ransom money but also ended his life, leaving his family in utter shock and disbelief.”

A Community in Mourning

The murder of Mr. Shaku has left the community devastated. His brutal killing marks another grim chapter in the ongoing violence in Benue State, where armed herdsmen attacks have disrupted lives and livelihoods for years.

“This is the same man who survived an attack last year. Now, his life has been cut short, and his community is living in fear,” the source added.

Police Response

When contacted, the Police Public Relations Officer in the state, Chief Superintendent Catherine Anene, stated that she was yet to receive official information about the incident.

A Call for Action

The murder of Mr. Shaku is a stark reminder of the growing insecurity in the region, with kidnappings and violent attacks becoming disturbingly frequent. Residents are now calling on the authorities to step up efforts to protect lives and property, as well as bring the perpetrators to justice.

For the grieving family and the displaced residents of Akor, justice remains elusive, as their tragedy underscores the human toll of a crisis that shows no sign of abating.

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