Suspected gunmen on Thursday night shot dead a former caretaker chairman of Otukpo Local Government Area of Benue State, Hon. Udeh Ijachi, popularly known as “Honourable Ukpem.”
The tragic incident occurred in front of Okabidibo Hotel in Makurdi, where the former council boss was reportedly ambushed by unidentified attackers. Eyewitnesses said the assailants opened fire on him in a sudden assault before escaping the scene.
The gunshots caused immediate panic in the area, sending residents and passers-by into confusion as they rushed to the spot to discover what had happened. Many described the shooting as shocking and sudden, leaving the community in disbelief.
Hon. Ijachi, who previously served as caretaker chairman of Otukpo LGA, was well known in political and community circles across the state.
As of the time of this report, no security agency has issued an official statement on the killing. However, investigations are expected to commence soon to establish the circumstances surrounding the attack and apprehend those responsible.
The motive behind the assassination remains unknown at this time.
Residents of Otukpo and Makurdi have called on security agencies to thoroughly investigate the incident, bring the perpetrators to justice, and strengthen security measures in the area to prevent a recurrence of such targeted killings.
The death of Hon. Udeh Ijachi has thrown Otukpo and parts of Benue State into mourning, with many expressing grief over the loss of a prominent community figure.
