Gunmen suspected to be bandits have attacked Agojeju-Odo community in Omala Local Government Area of Kogi State, killing no fewer than 19 residents.

It was gathered that the gunmen attacked the community on Thursday night.

A community member disclosed that a running battle between militia groups in parts of Benue State and some bandits led to the onslaught on the sleepy towns of Agojeju-Odo, Ajokpachi-Odo, Bagaji, and environs.

“They destroyed farm produce with ease in an attempt to draw the communities into the conflict,” the resident told NAN.

Retired Commodore Jerry Omodara, the Special Adviser on Security to Governor Usman Ododo, confirmed the incident on Friday.

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Omodara, who disclosed that property, especially houses, vehicles, and crops were destroyed in the attack, said the governor has ordered a thorough investigation into the incident.

He said: “The killing of 19 innocent and armless residents of the community by alleged hired militiamen is very callous, unacceptable, and condemnable.

“The area is now calm, however, following the deployment of security operatives, who are keeping vigil there.”

The governor’s aide called on the people of Agojeju-Odo and neighbouring communities to remain calm, saying the government and security agencies were on top of the situation.

The incident was also confirmed by the Kogi State Police Public Relations Officer, SP William Ovye-Aya.

The police spokesperson added that an investigation is ongoing to ascertain the cause of the attack and to arrest the perpetrators.

Ovye-Aya said: “A tactical response team of the police, the military, and members of vigilance groups has been deployed in the area. Normalcy has since returned to the troubled community.

“Investigation into the incident has started to bring the perpetrators to book.”

The Star