By Israel Adamu Jos
Executive Chairman of Agatu Local Government Council, Hon. James Melvin Ejeh, has expressed profound outrage over the gruesome murder of four individuals in the Egwuma and Ogbai communities by suspected Fulani terrorists.
The Chairman condemned the attack, which claimed the lives of an innocent mother, her son, and two others, as barbaric, senseless, and an unprovoked assault on peaceful citizens. “
This is an unprovoked attack on our people. It’s senseless and barbaric,” Hon. Ejeh declared. “How could anyone attack and kill a mother and her son who were simply working on their farm? This tragic incident occurred on Wednesday in Egwuma, where an innocent mother and her son were brutally murdered. Two others were also killed in the neighbouring community of Ogbai. This heinous act is a stark reminder of the terror that criminal elements continue to unleash on our land.”
While commending the efforts of security personnel deployed to the area, Hon. Ejeh noted that the attack took place while security forces were conducting surveillance in other villages. “The attack occurred when security personnel were patrolling other areas. However, their swift and professional response prevented what could have been an even more disastrous situation,” he stated.
The Chairman thanked the Operation Whirl Stroke team, the Nigeria Police Force, the Civil Defence Corps, and Operation Anyam Nyor for their commitment and tireless efforts in protecting Agatu. “I commend our security agencies for their prompt and professional response. Their dedication to securing Agatu is deeply appreciated, and I urge them to continue their excellent work,” he said.
Hon. Ejeh also praised Benue State Governor Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia for his unwavering support and proactive measures in tackling insecurity across the state. “We are fortunate to have a governor who is committed to fighting criminality and ensuring peace in Agatu and Benue State as a whole. His leadership and support have been instrumental in addressing these recurring challenges,” the Chairman remarked.
Recognising Agatu’s unique vulnerabilities due to its swampy terrain, Hon. Ejeh called on the youth to remain vigilant. “Given the difficult terrain, poor road network, and other factors that make Agatu vulnerable, I urge our youth to remain law-abiding, vigilant, and proactive in sharing intelligence for the protection of our community,” he advised.
In a heartfelt message, the Chairman extended his condolences to the affected families and communities. “My heart goes out to the families of the victims, the communities of Egwuma and Ogbai, and the entire Agatu land. This is a tragic loss for all of us, and we stand together in grief and solidarity,” Hon. Ejeh said.
The Chairman reaffirmed his commitment to collaborating with security agencies, community leaders, youth, and the state government to ensure that such acts of violence are prevented in the future. “We will continue to work tirelessly to secure our communities and bring lasting peace to Agatu,” he concluded.
