In a shocking turn of events, gunmen have reportedly killed five police officers in Abakaliki, the capital of Ebonyi State. The unfortunate incident occurred around 5:00 am at Ebyia bridge along Hilltop/Nwoke road.
Simultaneously, in a Thursday evening attack on Wandor, Mbaikyor community in the Mbalom Council Ward of Gwer East Local Government Area (LGA) in Benue State, a retired army officer, and 15 others were reportedly killed by suspected armed herdsmen. The assailants, numbering about 40, were reported to have not only taken lives but also razed over 50 houses, huts, farmlands, and food barns in 11 settlements during the attack.
This grim occurrence comes about six years after a similar attack by armed herdsmen on St. Ignatius Catholic Church, Ukpor Parish, Mbalom Gwer East LGA, claimed the lives of two Catholic priests and 17 parishioners.
A survivor, speaking on condition of anonymity, shared a harrowing account, stating that the well-armed marauders descended on the community around 7:00 pm, catching the locals off guard. The attackers reportedly opened fire on the unsuspecting residents.
The Caretaker Chairman of Gwer East LGA, Mrs. Comfort Agbo, confirmed the devastating development, stating, “At the moment, there is relative peace in Wandor community. Sixteen bodies have so far been recovered. Two were injured and are receiving treatment. Those who attacked and killed my people are suspected armed herdsmen. The security operatives are currently moving the bodies to the mortuary.”
The Police Public Relations Officer, Superintendent Catherine Anene, also confirmed the incident, mentioning that the Police Commissioner was en route to the scene for an on-the-spot assessment.
Additionally, the Benue State Deputy Governor, Dr. Sam Ode, reportedly led a delegation to the affected community.
As communities grapple with the aftermath of these heinous attacks, authorities are mobilizing to assess the situation and provide support to the affected areas.
The nation mourns the loss of lives in these tragic events, emphasizing the urgent need for security measures to protect vulnerable communities.