Udeh Ijachi, the previous caretaker chairman of Otukpo Local Government Area in Benue State, was assassinated on Thursday night by suspected gunmen.
Otukpo people are shocked after Ijachi, also known as “Honourable Ukpem,” was allegedly shot and killed by unknown assailants.
According to eyewitnesses, the former council boss was allegedly ambushed in front of the Okabido Hotel. The attackers fired on him before fleeing, according to witness testimonies.
A few moments after the gunshots, locals and onlookers hurried outside to investigate what had happened, causing panic in the neighborhood. Many said the gunshot left the neighborhood in disarray, characterizing the attack as startling.
Security officials had not issued an official comment on the murder as of the time of this story. Investigations, however, are anticipated to start in order to ascertain the circumstances behind the incident and identify the perpetrators.
Ijachi was well-known in the state’s political and social circles and had previously held the position of temporary chairman for Otukpo Local Government Area.
The attack’s motivation is yet unknown.
In the meantime, locals have asked security services to look into the incident in great detail and bolster local security to stop it from happening again.
