The District Head of Odugbeho community in Agatu Local Government Area of Benue State, Chief Anthony Adejoh, has been reportedly murdered by suspected armed herdsmen, News360 Nigeria reports.

The attack, which also claimed the life of one Jerry John, occurred on Wednesday afternoon at Otobi-Akpa, in Otukpo Local Government Area.

According to reports, the two victims were working on their farms when armed men believed to be herders invaded the area and opened fire on them. Their lifeless bodies were later discovered by residents who rushed to the scene after hearing gunshots.

Confirming the incident, the Chairman of Agatu LGA, Mr Marvis Ejeh, described the late Chief Adejoh as a peace-loving and community-driven leader whose death is a great loss to the area. Ejeh disclosed, “I can confirm to you that the district head of Odugbeho, Chief Tony Adejo, has been killed. He was murdered by armed herdsmen while farming at Otobi in Otukpo LGA.”

Despite the tragic development, the chairman assured that the community remains calm and would not resort to retaliation. He stated, “Odugbeho is calm, and nobody is taking the law into his hands because the incident did not happen within Agatu. There is no need for reprisal attacks.”

He further cautioned residents of Agatu farming in other local government areas to be extra vigilant and cooperate with local authorities to identify safer areas for their activities while the government works on addressing security concerns in Benue South Senatorial District.

Meanwhile, when contacted for a reaction, the Benue State Police Public Relations Officer, Chief Superintendent Catherine Anene, said she had yet to receive official reports concerning the incident.