No fewer than 15 persons have reportedly been killed and several others injured following an attack by suspected armed herdsmen on Ojatele community in Apa Local Government Area of Benue State.

Residents said the attack occurred around noon on Friday, leaving the community in pain, confusion, and widespread displacement.

According to locals, the suspected attackers invaded the community and opened fire on residents, inflicting various degrees of injuries on several people.

A resident, Peter Oche, who confirmed the incident, said the assailants stormed the area with a large herd of cattle and began shooting at residents without provocation.

“It was an unprovoked attack. The armed herdsmen came with large cows and were grazing unhindered, but when they saw some women and children returning from their cashew farms, they opened fire on them. Some persons were killed while others sustained various degrees of injuries,” he said.

Oche added that the casualty figure might increase as many residents fled into nearby bushes for safety.

“So far, we have recovered about 15 corpses, while 11 others who sustained injuries have been evacuated,” he said.

He noted that community leaders had made efforts to move the injured victims to a hospital in Ugbokpo, the headquarters of Apa Local Government Area.

Another resident, James Agbo, also confirmed the incident, saying the attack had forced many villagers to abandon their homes.

“Our community is now completely deserted. We are calling on the government to come to our rescue. There is no security in the area. These were innocent people who went to look for their daily bread but were killed unjustifiably,” he said.

Reacting to the incident, the Chairman of Apa Local Government Area, Adams Ada Ochega, confirmed that an attack had occurred but said he was yet to obtain full details.

“Yes, there was an attack on Ojatele community in Apa Local Government Area, but I am currently away on an official assignment. My attention has been drawn to the incident, and I will have more information by tomorrow,” he said.

The latest attack adds to the growing security concerns in rural communities of Benue State, where clashes between farmers and armed groups have continued to claim lives and displace residents.