24th February, 2025
By Jethro Ibileke
Tragedy struck 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.
The Onwuweko of Okpekpe, HRH Peter Osigbemeh, confirmed the incident in a phone interview with journalists in Benin, the state capital.
He 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.
When contacted, the spokesman of the Edo State Police Command, CSP Moses Yamu, assured that he would provide an update.
However, he had yet to respond as of the time of filing this report.
