From Uche Nnorom, Makurdi
A village Head, Chief Iyongovihi Ninge, was yesterday reportedly killed by suspected herdsmen who attacked Chembe settlement in Ukemberagya/Tswarev ward of Gaambe-Tiev, Logo local government area of Benue state.
A source in the community told our correspondent on phone that the traditional ruler was killed in his farm when the armed herdsmen stormed the area with a large herd of cows.
“The armed herdsmen came with a large number of cattle eating up germinating yam seeds of farmers in the area.
“They met the Village Head in his farm where he had gone to inspect the clearing of his field in readiness for the cultivation of yam seedlings. They shot him at the back and he died on the spot.
“On hearing the gunshot everyone within the area ran for their lives even as it is difficult to ascertain at the moment the number of persons who may be killed but I saw several families crying that they could not trace their family members.”
“The community and adjourning villages are at the moment deserted and the rampaging herdsmen are freely grazing on people’s farmland,’, the source informed.
When contacted, the Logo local government council chairman, Mr. Richard Nyajo confirmed the incident.
“It is very true, herdsmen attacked Chembe and killed the Village Head. That was the first information that reached me this afternoon.
We learnt that after killing the Village Head, the herdsmen ran after the people of the community who fled from their farms and homes on hearing the sound of gunshots.
“I have already sent security personnel to the community to repel the attackers from the area and also assess the situation.
“As we speak I cannot tell you that more persons were killed until we get feedback from the security personnel that went into the bush.”
When contacted, the Benue state Police Commissioner, Fatai Owoseni said he was yet to receive briefs on the attack.
