PeakNews Online
OTUKPO – A deadly clash between local hunters and armed Fulani herdsmen in Okpomaju village, Okete Ward, Otukpo Local Government Area of Benue State, has left three people dead and several others injured.
The incident occurred on Monday during a routine hunting expedition when hunters reportedly encountered a group of heavily armed herders.
Fatal Encounter Sparks Fear in the Community
According to eyewitness accounts, the armed herdsmen, who were relatively new in the community, opened fire upon sighting the hunters, killing two of them on the spot and injuring others. In response, the hunters reportedly fought back, killing one herder before the rest retreated.
The violent encounter has heightened tensions in the area, forcing many residents—especially women and children—to flee their homes for safety.
In Ugboju District, also in Otukpo LGA, farmers in Akpachi, Oboh, and surrounding villages have abandoned their farmlands due to intimidation and gunfire from armed herders.
A distraught farmer, Oga Sunday, recounted his ordeal, explaining how an armed herder chased him off his farmland, leaving behind his harvested crops, which were subsequently trampled by grazing cattle.
Local Authorities Respond
A hunter who survived the attack narrated:
“We were on our usual hunting exercise when we encountered a hostile group of Fulani herdsmen, who immediately opened fire. We lost two men, while one of us was rushed to the hospital with serious injuries. We had no choice but to defend ourselves.”
Confirming the incident, the Och’Otukpo Odu, Chief John Eimonye, stated that he had scheduled a meeting with the leader of the herdsmen to find a peaceful resolution to the crisis. He also dismissed allegations that herdsmen had purchased land from local chiefs, asserting that such claims were unfounded.
Similarly, Otukpo Local Government Chairman, Mr. Maxwell Ogiri, confirmed the attack, adding that measures were being put in place to prevent a recurrence. He disclosed that herdsmen leaders had agreed to fish out any individual among them responsible for violence and to foster peaceful coexistence with the indigenous Otukpo people.
“Most of them were born and raised in Otukpo. They have assured us that they want a peaceful relationship,” Ogiri stated.
When contacted, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), CSP Catherine Anene, said she was awaiting an official report from the Otukpo Police Division regarding the incident.
Growing Insecurity in Benue
The latest clash highlights the persistent conflict between farmers, hunters, and Fulani herdsmen in Benue State, a region long plagued by disputes over grazing land and territorial encroachment. Residents are now urging the state and federal governments to take decisive action to curb the rising violence and ensure lasting peace.
