Multiple violent incidents across five Nigerian states have resulted in the deaths of at least 33 people and numerous injuries, exposing the worsening security crisis that continues to challenge authorities nationwide.
In Benue State’s Agatu Local Government Area, 15 traders were killed in a brutal ambush carried out by armed herders on Saturday evening. The victims were returning from Oweto market when they were attacked at the Ogwumogbio and Okpo’okpolo axis. Former local government official Anthony Ikwulono described the assault as unprovoked, attributing it to a herder who had recently returned to the area despite prior warnings to vacate. Local leaders report that many of the victims were women and children, and efforts to recover bodies are hindered by ongoing fear and insecurity.
In Imo State, gunmen believed to be herders targeted the border communities of Agwa and Amakohia-Ubi late Saturday night. Witnesses recount that the assailants fired sporadically, forcing residents to flee their homes. The attacks followed local efforts to prevent cattle grazing on farmland, with at least one person sustaining serious gunshot wounds. Residents voiced frustration over perceived government neglect amid repeated herder-related violence.
Kebbi State’s Waje village in Danko/Wasagu Local Government Area also suffered a deadly night raid by suspected bandits. Armed men on motorcycles opened fire on farmers preparing to leave their fields, killing 15 and injuring three. While police confirmed 10 deaths, state officials acknowledged the higher toll and pledged financial support to victims’ families.
In Ondo State, the chairman of the All Progressives Congress in Ose Local Government, Nelson Adepoyigi, was killed by kidnappers after a partial ransom payment of ₦5 million. Adepoyigi was abducted last Monday from his residence in Ifon town. Despite the release of two ransom couriers, the political leader was reportedly executed when the full ransom was not met. Local government officials condemned the killing, underscoring a deepening security crisis marked by brazen abductions.
Further north in Kogi State’s Yagba West Local Government Area, three men believed to be hunters and vigilantes were shot dead amid efforts to locate a traditional ruler abducted days earlier. The victims had been providing security for telecom technicians before being ambushed. Community members decried the violence, emphasizing the urgent need for enhanced security responses.
This spate of attacks across multiple regions underscores the persistent security challenges Nigeria faces, with rural communities bearing the brunt of violence from herders, bandits, and kidnappers. Calls for stronger intervention by federal and state governments have intensified as the cycle of violence threatens regional stability and civilian safety.