The District Head of Odugbeho in Agatu Local Government Area, Chief Anthony Adejoh, has been confirmed dead following a suspected attack by armed herdsmen in Otukpo LGA of Benue State.
The tragic incident occurred on Wednesday at Otobi-Akpa, a quiet farming community in Otukpo.
Chief Adejoh and another victim, identified as Jerry John, were working on their farms when gunmen believed to be herdsmen opened fire on them without warning.
Local residents reported hearing gunshots around mid-morning, and when they rushed to the scene, both men were found lifeless on the ground.
Chairman of Agatu LGA, Mr. Marvis Ejeh, confirmed the killing of the respected traditional leader and described the attack as senseless.
He noted that Chief Adejoh was targeted while carrying out his daily work on the farm, emphasizing that the attack happened outside the Agatu community, where the chief held influence.
“I can confirm to you that the district head of Odugbeho, Chief Tony Adejo, has been killed. He was killed by some armed herdsmen while working on his farm at Otobi in Otukpo LGA of the State,” Ejeh stated. He also praised the late chief as a man of peace, known for his commitment to community development.
Despite the gravity of the situation, Ejeh said the Agatu community remains calm and is not seeking revenge. “Nobody is taking the law into their hands, there is no need for a reprisal attack because the incident did not happen at home. Agatu is calm and peaceful,” he noted.
The chairman urged residents from Agatu who are farming or residing in other local government areas to stay alert and maintain close communication with local authorities.
“They should liaise with the local authority and know the areas that are safe to work for now, since the government is trying to curb the issue of insecurity in the entire Benue South District or Zone C,” he added.
