Och'Otukpo gives herders 24 hours to leave Otukpo Kingdom after deadly attack

The Och'Otukpo Odu, Chief John Eimonye, has ordered all herders to vacate Otukpo Kingdom immediately following Sunday's deadly attack on Nobi Village in Otukpo District where several people were killed. The directive was issued through a statement signed by the Secretary of the Otukpo District Traditional Council, Chief Udeh Adole, who said the continued presence of herders had become a serious threat to the safety and security of the people.

Chief Eimonye stressed that this is not about profiling any group but a necessary measure to safeguard lives. He expressed deep concern over what he described as the continued neglect of his people, who have been left at the mercy of attackers. The traditional ruler vowed that Otukpo District would not be taken over by any interest under his watch.

How many more communities must bury their sons and daughters before the authorities take this seriously? This is Benue, and the pattern is becoming all too familiar.