Armed herdsmen have invaded Otobi community in Otukpo Local Government Area of Benue State, causing widespread panic and forcing residents to flee their homes and farms. Otobi is notably the hometown of former Senate President, David Mark, a retired Brigadier-General and the longest-serving Senate President in Nigeria’s history.
According to sources who spoke to SaharaReporters, the attack occurred on Saturday evening, and the situation remains tense as residents continue to evacuate.
“Herdsmen are killing residents of Otobi in Otukpo LGA Benue State. They killed one last night and went round the community shooting. They are promising to attack again tonight,” a source revealed.
“Villagers are evacuating. There is panic everywhere. This is the same community where David Mark came from,” another source added.
The invasion comes amid a series of violent attacks by suspected herdsmen across Benue State in recent weeks.
Earlier this week, gunmen killed two people and abducted 13 passengers near the Otukpo Burnt Bricks area. The management of Benue Links Nigeria Limited confirmed the abduction in a statement released by the company's Information Officer, Johnson Daniel, noting that efforts were underway to rescue the victims.
The Benue State Police Spokesperson, SP Anene Sewuese Catherine, also confirmed the kidnapping and assured that more details would be shared in due time.
“A kidnap incident involving a Benue Links vehicle has been reported. More details will be made available shortly,” she stated.
As the wave of insecurity intensifies, calls for urgent intervention from security agencies continue to mount, especially as rural communities remain highly vulnerable.
