Tension Mounts In Benue Communities Over Killng Of 2 Youths

Tension has mounted between the Igede communities of Oju and Obi and their neighbouring Gwer East and Konshisha local government areas of Benue State over the alleged murder of two young men – Jonathan Ogah and Gabriel Ogodo.

They were allegedly killed by youths believed to be from Ulam community in Gwer East LGA in an ambush.

Consequently, Governor Hyacinth Alia, who condemned the incident, lamented a separate attack on Nyifon community in Mbaikyongo Ward of Buruku LG, reportedly carried out by youths from the Mbayaka community in Kusuv, also of Buruku following a misunderstanding linked to a boat mishap.

The governor, in a statement by the chief press secretary Tersoo Kula, also gave security agencies a 48-hour ultimatum to catch the masterminds of the two incidents, which have already heightened tensions in the affected communities.

Our correspondent gathered that one of the slain victims, who got married last Saturday was allegedly ambushed and murdered on Monday by the youths on the Awajir-Oju road while travelling on a powerbike with his friend from Oju to Makurdi.

It was also gathered that the murder of the duo has ignited tension between the affected communities when their bodies were recovered and taken home, as the busy Aliade- Awajir-Oju road which is under construction, is deserted.

According to the governor, security reports indicate that the two slain youths were travelling from Oju on their motorcycle when they were attacked and killed in cold blood.

The governor bemoaned the attack on the Nyifon community in Mbaikyongo Ward of Buruku Local Government Area, which he said was reportedly carried out by youths from the Mbayaka community in Kusuv, of Buruku LG. He described the two separate incidents as uncalled for and unfortunate,saying nobody or group has the right to invade another community or inflict harm under any circumstance.

He directed the security agencies to move in, liaise with the traditional rulers of the areas concerned and ensure that they comb the vicinity thoroughly and within 48 hours, identify and apprehend the perpetrators of these heinous crimes to face the full wrath of the law.