The traditional ruler of the Otukpo-Abaku Kingdom, Ochotukpo Odu, Chief Dr John Eimonye OON JP, has strongly condemned the unprovoked attack on Okpomaju village, allegedly carried out by suspected Fulani herders on Wednesday night.
In a statement issued on Thursday by the Secretary to the Otukpo District Traditional Council, Chief Udeh Adole, the monarch expressed deep concern over the continued violence in the region, despite efforts to foster peaceful coexistence.
“Despite all positive and non-kinetic approaches by the peace-loving people of Otukpo Kingdom to ensure that peace reigns in the land, the Fulani herders have chosen the path of war over a land that is neither theirs nor a common patrimony,” the statement read.
Chief Eimonye vowed that under his leadership, the Otukpo-Abaku Kingdom would defend its land and people against any form of intimidation, describing the attack as a grievous affront to the community.
While extending his condolences to the families of those who lost their lives in the assault, he said the tragedy was a personal loss to him and the entire Otukpo people.
The monarch called on security agencies and all levels of government to take urgent action to prevent further attacks, stressing that such violence should not become a recurring phenomenon.
According to the statement, the Ochotukpo Odu also addressed allegations that certain individuals had received money from herders in exchange for ceding portions of Otukpo land. He assured the people that a serious investigation was underway to verify such claims.
He further invoked the deities of the land to punish anyone—regardless of their position or status—who might have had prior knowledge of the attacks or participated in any land deals with the herders.
“No means will be spared in defending our people and their God-given land,” he declared, urging unity and patriotism among the people to confront the ongoing security challenge.
The attack on Okpomaju is the latest in a series of violent clashes between farming communities and suspected armed herders in Benue State, a region that has experienced recurring conflicts over land and grazing rights.
Local leaders have repeatedly called for stronger government intervention to curb the violence, which has led to the displacement of thousands and significant loss of lives.
