In continuation of the spate of violence that is ripping Kogi State apart since last week, suspected herdsmen on Monday killed a traditional ruler, Onu Agbenema, Musa Edibo, and his wife, including nine others in Agbenema, Aj’Ichekpa, Opada and Iyade villages of Omala Local Government Area of the state.
In separate attacks on the villages, several houses were burnt down by the herdsmen, with the attackers hiding in the bushes to launch surprise attacks on unsuspecting villagers.
According to the natives, the herdsmen whose mode of operation is to set the houses ablaze and open fire on the fleeing inhabitants, allegedly slit victims’ throats and cut off their vital parts.
The natives who craved anonymity revealed that the administrator of Omala LGA, Ibrahim Aboh, was lucky to have escaped from the attackers.
Also, the houses of former chairman, Adofu Stephen; and that of his parents were burnt.
Residents said soldiers, who were drafted to curtail the herdsmen’s rampage, allegedly refused to assist them to repel the suspected herdsmen.
“We were surprised when we approached the soldiers, who were stationed at the Guest House at Abejukolo for assistance. They refused to act professionally, as they used their vehicle to block us from advancing to the troubled spot to help our people.
“They have razed down Ojuwo Ajomayeigbi, Iyade, Agbenema and Opada villages. We want the world to come to our assistance before they exterminate and inherit our land.”
Police Public Relations Officer of the state command said he was yet to be briefed by the DPO in Omala.
