Fresh tensions have erupted in a border community between Ebonyi and Benue states, leaving at least six people feared dead and several others injured. The incident occurred on Saturday afternoon in the Ezza community of Ado Local Government Area, Benue State, with the attackers allegedly linked to Effium, an Ebonyi community.
Local sources said the attack began at about 2:30 p.m. when armed men believed to be from Effium stormed Ezza, firing sporadically at unsuspecting residents.
Eyewitnesses recounted the chaos: “People were going about their normal business when gunmen invaded the community without warning. It was a brutal and unprovoked assault.”
The decades-old conflict between the Effium and Ezza communities, both of which have roots in Ebonyi State, has seen repeated flare-ups despite government-led peace initiatives.
“This is one of the worst in recent times. Women and children are fleeing their homes during the Easter period. About six people have been killed, and several others injured. The attackers are reportedly still within the community, looting food items and valuables,” the source added.
As of the time of filing this report, efforts to speak with the Benue State Police spokesperson, CSP Catherine Anene, have been unsuccessful.
The Ebonyi State Government is yet to issue an official statement, but the incident raises renewed concern about border-related violence involving communities with ancestral ties in Ebonyi.
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