The former Chairman of Otukpo Local Government Area in Benue State, Mr. Udeh Ijachi, has been killed by suspected gunmen in a late-night attack that has heightened tension in the community. He was reportedly shot near a popular hotel in Otukpo town on Thursday around 9 p.m.
According to local sources, the attackers trailed Ijachi to the location and waited near the hotel before striking. The assailants, said to have arrived on a motorbike, allegedly approached him at close range and shot him before fleeing the scene. The gunfire caused panic as residents scattered for safety.
Eyewitnesses said concerned locals later found the former council chairman lying in a pool of blood and rushed him to a nearby hospital, where he was confirmed dead on arrival. The attack is believed to have been well-planned.
The killing comes about six months after his brother, Ejeh Udeh Ijachi, was also killed by gunmen in Ogobia-Ugboju within the same local government area. The recurrence has raised concerns over possible links to political or local disputes.
Otukpo LGA Chairman Mr. Maxwell Ogiri confirmed the incident, describing the killing as shocking and unacceptable. He urged security agencies to investigate thoroughly and prevent further escalation. Police authorities said they would provide details later but had yet to issue a full statement at the time of reporting.