Benue community holds mass burial for victims of deadly attack

Residents of Otukpo-Nobi community in Otukpo Local Government Area of Benue State on Friday held a mass burial for victims killed in last Sunday’s attack by suspected armed herders.

The solemn ceremony drew grieving families, traditional rulers, religious leaders, community members and sympathisers, who gathered to pay their final respects to those who lost their lives in the deadly assault.

DAILY POST recalls that suspected armed herders invaded Otukpo-Nobi community in the early hours of Sunday, killing eight persons and leaving several others with varying degrees of injuries. The attack also forced many residents to flee the community.

Speaking during the burial, mourners described the killings as heartbreaking and renewed calls on the Federal Government and security agencies to take urgent steps to end the recurring attacks on communities in Benue State.

They also urged the authorities to ensure that those responsible for the killings are arrested and prosecuted, while appealing for improved security to enable displaced residents to return to their homes.

Prayers were offered for the repose of the victims’ souls as the community continued to mourn the tragic loss of their loved ones, with many expressing hope that lasting peace would return to the area.