Victims of Otobi Akpa Herdsmen Attack Laid to Rest in Benue

April 28, 2025 EMMANUEL ADEBAYO AJIBOLA

A cloud of grief descended on the Otobi Akpa community in Otukpo Local Government Area of Benue State on Sunday, April 27, 2025, as victims of a recent herdsmen attack were laid to rest in a mass burial ceremony.

The event, held at the Methodist Primary School in Otobi Akpa, honoured at least ten individuals who lost their lives during the violent assault on April 15. The attack shattered the peace of the once-thriving community, leaving behind deep wounds of loss and destruction.

Mourners, including residents, family members, and sympathisers, gathered at the burial site, where rows of coffins starkly represented the lives tragically cut short. Emotions ran high as tears flowed freely, with many struggling to come to terms with the devastating losses.

Describing the tragedy, the Chairman of Otukpo LGA, Maxwell Ogiri, called it “one of the darkest days” in the community’s history. “Today is the saddest day for us as a people,” he said, urging the community to remain united and resilient in the face of such tragedy.

However, frustration and anger simmer beneath the mourning. Many residents lament the lack of concrete updates from authorities regarding the attack and the absence of clear measures to prevent future occurrences. Community leaders have repeatedly called for justice and for stronger security measures to protect lives and property.

Despite their grief, the people of Otobi Akpa remain united in their demand for peace, justice, and lasting protection from violence.