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Gunmen launched a deadly attack on Olegabulu community in the Agatu Local Government Area of Benue State, killing a traditional ruler, his wife, son, and several members of his immediate family.
It was gathered that the attackers stormed the community on Thursday night, April 23, 2026, leaving a trail of blood.
Local sources confirmed that the victims include Chief Momo Alexander Awodi, the traditional ruler of Olegabulu; his wife, Abigail Awodi; and their son, Boniface Ochowechi.
Other residents identified among the dead include Mr. Ochowechi Ochegwu and Mrs. Deborah Ochowechi.
A resident revealed that the attackers might be locals or individuals familiar with the terrain. “From what we are seeing, this does not look like a herdsmen’s attack. Olegabulu is located between two communities, and there have been underlying tensions,” the source said.
“Some people were seen passing through the village square and greeted others in Agatu. That is why many are confused about what really happened,” the source added.
The Chairman of Agatu Local Government Area, Hon. Melvin Ejeh, who confirmed the incident, described the killings as “tragic and devastating,” and urged grieving residents to avoid retaliatory violence.
“I urge our people to remain calm and not take the law into their hands. Security agencies have been mobilised, and investigations are ongoing to identify and apprehend those responsible for this heinous act,” the chairman said
