Gunmen Kill Former LG Chairman Ijachi Ukpem in Benue

Ijachi Ukpem, a former local government chairman, was killed by gunmen on Thursday night at the Premis Hotel Lodge in Otukpo, Benue State. The attack occurred around 9:30 PM as the assailants opened fire, leading to immediate chaos as people fled the scene.

Eyewitnesses reported that the gunmen escaped on motorcycles. The incident is believed to be connected to unresolved issues in Ukpem's village, Ugboju, where he had not been seen for a long time.

Maxwell Ogiri, the chairman of Otukpo Local Government Area, confirmed the incident and expressed shock and pain over the murder, urging security agencies to investigate thoroughly to prevent similar occurrences. This attack follows the murder of Ukpem's younger brother, Ejeh Udeh, in a similar manner in September 2025.

Udem Edet, the police public relations officer, stated that a response would be provided later regarding the investigation.