Two Killed as Armed Attackers Strike Villages in Benue’s Apa LGA

At least two people have been killed following attacks on villages in Apa Local Government Area of Benue State by armed intruders.

Residents said the assailants stormed Akpete community on Friday around 6 p.m., killing Matthew Ochanga and Isaac Adanu, while several others sustained injuries.

The attackers also targeted Edikwu community around the same time but were reportedly repelled by security operatives.

Chairman of Apa LGA, Adams Ocheiga, confirmed the incidents, saying, “Soldiers and youths formed formidable forces against the attackers in Edikwu and chased them away. Unfortunately, two residents were killed in Akpete community.”

Ocheiga added that security operations have been intensified in the affected areas to prevent further attacks.

The Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Udeme Edet, also confirmed the events, stating, “The Command on the 6th of February 2026 received a situation report on an attack by suspected armed Fulani herdsmen on Edikwu Icho in Apa Local Government Area.

The attack was repelled through the efforts of operatives of the Benue State Police Command attached to the Rapid Response Squad (RRS).

Following the intervention, the general security situation in Apa Local Government Area remains calm.”

Edet further noted that the bridge linking Ugbokpo, Idogbu, Ochumeku, and Ikobi, which was previously burnt by suspected herdsmen, is being replaced.

“Reconstruction work is ongoing under heavy security presence to ensure the safety of personnel and members of the public,” he said.

He acknowledged the continued support of other security agencies, including the Nigerian Army, Civil Protection Guard, and relevant Benue State Government officials, emphasizing that collaboration with the police has been key to maintaining peace and public safety across the state.