Security Agencies Criticized Over Otukpo Killings

The Ochetoha K'Idoma Forum Worldwide has condemned the recent killings in Otukpo, Benue State, where no fewer than 20 people were killed in an attack attributed to armed herders. The group, led by Professor Yakubu Aboki Ochefu and Chief Dr. Paul Edeh, stated that security agencies ignored prior warnings about the planned attack.

They reported that the paramount ruler of the Idoma nation, Dr. Elaigwu Odogbo Obagaji, had alerted relevant security authorities about the impending violence, but no action was taken. The forum described the attack as a barbaric and unprovoked massacre, emphasizing the emotional toll on the victims' families.

They raised concerns about the rising death toll and urged the government to deploy security personnel to affected areas, arrest individuals making threats on social media, and provide relief materials to displaced persons. The group also called for the unconditional release of innocent residents detained in connection with previous incidents.