Udeh Ijachi, a former interim chairman of Otukpo Local Government Area in Benue State, was assassinated by suspected gunmen on Thursday night.
Ijachi, also referred to as “Honourable Ukpem,” was allegedly shot and killed by unknown assailants in an unexpected incident that shocked Otukpo people.
According to witnesses, the former council boss was allegedly ambushed in front of the Okabido Hotel. Reports from the scene indicate that the attackers fired at him before fleeing.
A few moments after the gunshots, locals and onlookers hurried outside to investigate what had happened, causing panic in the region. Many called the attack “shocking,” claiming that the gunshot left the area in disarray.
Security officials had not made an official comment on the killing as of the time of this story. Investigations to ascertain the attack’s circumstances and identify the perpetrators are anticipated to start, though.
Ijachi was well-known in the state’s political and social circles, having previously held the position of interim chairman of Otukpo Local Government Area.
The cause of the attack is still a mystery.
In the meantime, locals have called on security services to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the incident and bolster local security to stop such incidents.
