Suspected Herdsmen Kill Two Farmers In Edo
By Simeon OSAJIE
It was a sad moment yesterday in Okpekpe, Etsako East Local Government Area of Edo State, as suspected herdsmen reportedly killed two farmers, Philip Batemue (also known as Ebo) and Christopher Bello.
His Royal Highness, Peter Osigbemeh, the Onwuweko of Okpekpe, confirmed the incident in a phone interview with journalists in Benin City, the state capital.
The Onwuweko stated that security operatives had been deployed to the grieving community to prevent further violence and maintain order.
Similarly, the Chairman of Etsako East Local Government Council, Benedicta Attoh, raised concerns over the escalating attacks in the North Ibie Zone.
In a statement issued through her Chief Press Secretary, Benjamin Atu, Attoh warned that if urgent action is not taken, the entire community could be at risk of annihilation.
“It is time to tackle this high level of insecurity by deploying the military to patrol the bushes and farmlands, ensuring farmers can work without fear,” she stated.
She further urged Governor Monday Okpebholo to strengthen security across the community, particularly in remote areas, and activate the local vigilante network, which has previously played a key role in safeguarding the council area.
Meanwhile, The Edo State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), in a statement by Chris Nehikhare, Publicity Secretary of the Edo PDP Caretaker Committee, expressed disappointment over the killings.
According to the statement: “We are deeply saddened by the heinous attack on the people of Okpekpe Community in Etsako East Local Government Area by suspected herdsmen, which led to the gruesome murder of two innocent citizens, Batemue Philip Ebo and Christopher Bello.
“We condemn this dastardly act in the strongest terms and send our heartfelt condolences to their families, loved ones, and the entire community during this difficult time,” he stated.
Contacted, the spokesman of the Edo State Police Command, CSP Moses Yamu, assured that he would provide an update.
However, as at the time of filing in this report, the Police Image-maker is yet to respond.
