Tragedy struck in Abakaliki, Ebonyi State capital, as gunmen reportedly killed five police officers in the early hours of Friday. The unfortunate incident took place around 5 a.m. at Ebyia bridge along Hilltop/Nwoke road, according to sources.
In a separate but equally devastating attack, a retired army officer and 15 others were reportedly killed by suspected armed herdsmen in an attack on Wandor, Mbaikyor community in the Mbalom Council Ward of Gwer East Local Government Area (LGA) in Benue State on Thursday evening.
Reports indicate that the assailants, numbering about 40 and well armed, stormed the community around 7 p.m., catching the locals off guard. They opened fire indiscriminately, resulting in casualties and widespread destruction.
The invaders reportedly razed over 50 houses, huts, farmlands, and food barns across 11 settlements in the attack. This incident comes six years after a similar attack by armed herdsmen on St. Ignatius Catholic Church, Ukpor Parish, Mbalom Gwer East LGA, which claimed the lives of two Catholic priests and 17 parishioners.
Confirming the tragic events, Mrs. Comfort Agbo, the Caretaker Chairman of Gwer East LGA, disclosed, “At the moment, there is relative peace in Wandor community. Sixteen bodies have so far been recovered, and two injured persons are receiving treatment. The attackers suspected to be armed herdsmen. Security operatives are currently moving the bodies to the mortuary.”
Meanwhile, the Police Public Relations Officer, Superintendent Catherine Anene, confirmed the incidents, adding that the Police Commissioner was en route to the scene for an on-the-spot assessment.
Additionally, the Benue State Deputy Governor, Dr. Sam Ode, reportedly led a delegation to the affected community, underscoring the gravity of the situation and the urgent need for intervention.