By Abigail David
Eight people were killed and five others injured after armed assailants attacked the Otukpo Nobi community in Otukpo Local Government Area of Benue State shortly after a burial ceremony, the Benue State Police Command has said.
Police spokesperson DSP Udeme Edet said in a statement on Monday that the attack occurred in the early hours of Sunday following the burial of Adaje Okoh, an octogenarian.
According to the police, the attackers opened fire on residents, killing eight people and injuring five others. Some thatched houses and a motorcycle were also set ablaze during the incident.
Benue State Commissioner of Police Cletus Nwadiogbu led tactical teams to the community after receiving reports of the attack. The command said security personnel restored calm, while the injured were taken to a hospital in Otukpo for treatment. The bodies of the deceased were deposited at the Federal University of Health Sciences Teaching Hospital, Otukpo.
The police said an investigation is underway and assured residents that those responsible would be identified and brought to justice. Additional security personnel have also been deployed to the affected community and other vulnerable areas following a protest by some youths.
Meanwhile, the Benue State chapter of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) has publicly distanced its members from the attack.
