The death toll from the brutal attack on Amagu, Amaokwe, and Umunesha villages in Nkalaha community, Ishielu Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, has risen to 15, with many residents still missing.
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The attack, carried out by suspected Fulani herdsmen on Sunday, has left the community in mourning and sparked outrage across the state.
Initial reports indicated that 10 people were killed, with several houses set ablaze during the invasion. However, as search operations continued, more bodies were discovered in the surrounding bushes, raising the death toll to 15. Locals fear the number could increase as efforts to locate missing persons persist.
Deputy Governor Issues 24-Hour Ultimatum to Security Agencies
Ebonyi State Deputy Governor, Princess Patricia Obila, who visited the affected communities on behalf of Governor Francis Nwifuru, expressed shock and sadness over the incident. She described the scene as “horrific” and condemned the senseless killing of innocent citizens, many of whom were young people.
“No government is happy to see its citizens killed in such a bloody manner. These are our younger generation, lost to violence. What happens to their children and families? Why do you terminate lives you cannot create?” she lamented.
Obila issued a 24-hour ultimatum to security agencies in the state to apprehend the perpetrators. “I order you to fish out the killers within 24 hours. They must be brought to justice,” she declared. She also called on youth leaders in the community to promote peace and harmony, urging them to avoid retaliation.
The traditional ruler of Nkalaha community, Igwe Thompson Ebe, revealed that tensions between the Agila community in Benue State and Fulani herdsmen had been escalating since January 2025. He stated that he had previously mediated between the groups and even invited the herdsmen to his residence in Abakaliki to address allegations of cow killings.
“We made some arrests and were working to resolve the issue peacefully. Unfortunately, this tragic incident occurred on Sunday,” Igwe Ebe said. He confirmed that the herdsmen attacked three villages, leaving a trail of destruction and death.
“We are still recovering bodies. The death toll has risen to 15, and we are searching for two others who are still missing,” he added.
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