At least four people have been killed following a renewed attack on Otobi-Akpa community in Otukpo Local Government Area of Benue State by gunmen suspected to be armed herdsmen.
The assailants reportedly stormed the community around midnight on Tuesday, firing gunshots indiscriminately and sending residents fleeing into nearby bushes and villages for safety.
Sources said the attackers, believed to be heavily armed, held the area under siege for hours, creating panic and chaos among locals who were caught unawares.
Those confirmed killed in the attack include Hon. Ochi Ayedu, Eje Uzu, Alinko and Achibi.
As of the time of filing this report, several residents were still missing, raising fears that the casualty figure could rise.
The latest assault comes barely months after Otobi-Akpa suffered a similar deadly invasion in which no fewer than 13 persons lost their lives.
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That earlier attack also left many injured, several residents missing and more than 50 houses destroyed.
Community members have expressed fear over the recurring violence, calling on security agencies and the Benue State Government to urgently intervene to prevent further bloodshed.
Efforts to reach security authorities for official confirmation and response were ongoing as details continued to emerge.