Fresh Wave of Violence in Edo as Suspected Herdsmen Kill 2 Farmers, Injure Another

Tragedy struck in Eware Community, Etsako West Local Government Area of Edo State, as two farmers, Lucky Salami and Julius Arewa, were brutally killed by suspected herdsmen. A third victim, Omokhagbon Abu, popularly known as ‘Udugboya,’ is currently battling for his life in an undisclosed hospital. 

The attack, which occurred yesterday, comes just days after Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, called for heightened security in vulnerable areas such as Okpekpe in Etsako East and Ivbiaro in Owan East, following a similar attack that claimed three lives. 

Confirming the latest incident, the impeached Chairman of Etsako West Local Government Area, Marvelous Zibiri, said the killings took place in Eware Village, Ward 8 Anwain, with the assailants suspected to be Fulani herdsmen. 

In a statement released by his Press Secretary, Iyamah Nurudeen, Zibiri condemned the attack, describing it as a "dastardly and heinous act" that has not only taken innocent lives but also spread fear and tension across the community. 

“This barbaric incident is unacceptable and poses a direct threat to the peace and security of Etsako West. The local government will not tolerate any form of violence that endangers the lives and livelihoods of our people,” Zibiri stated. 

While extending his condolences to the bereaved families, he called on the Edo State Government and security agencies to launch an immediate investigation to bring the perpetrators to justice. He further urged for increased security presence in rural areas to safeguard farmers, who he described as the backbone of the local economy. 

Zibiri also appealed to residents to remain calm and law-abiding, encouraging community leaders to cooperate with security agencies by providing any relevant information that could aid in apprehending the suspects. 

When contacted, the Coordinator of the Edo State Security Corps (ESSC), retired CP Friday Ibadin, referred journalists to the police, stating they were the lead agency in the matter. 

Meanwhile, the spokesperson for the Edo State Police Command, Moses Yamu, said he had not yet received details of the attack from officers in the area but promised to provide updates as soon as they became available. 

This latest attack has intensified calls for urgent government intervention in tackling the growing insecurity in Edo State’s rural communities.