Terror once again gripped the Agu-Amede autonomous community in Eha-Amufu, Isi-Uzo Local Government Area of Enugu State, as suspected herdsmen reportedly killed a local farmer, Francis Odoh.
According to sources within the community, the tragic event unfolded on Tuesday when Odoh was killed near his farmland. This incident has heightened fears in the community, which has been repeatedly attacked in the past.
A video obtained by SaharaReporters on Thursday showed grief-stricken residents mourning at the home of the deceased.
Speaking to SaharaReporters, a prominent community member, Chief Ogenyi Odo, recounted the tragic discovery. “He went to his farm on Tuesday morning but never returned home. His wife raised the alarm that evening, prompting a search party. Sadly, his lifeless body was found on Wednesday morning, close to his farm and near an area where Fulani herdsmen have forcefully settled. We believe they are responsible for his brutal murder.”
Chief Odo further lamented the continuous attacks in the area. “Many lives have been lost in Agu-Amede and neighboring communities due to the violence from these herdsmen, who seem intent on driving us from our land.”
Efforts to reach the Enugu State Police Command for comment were unsuccessful, as the police spokesperson, DSP Daniel Ndukwe, did not respond to calls or messages at the time of this report.
On January 23, 2024, the Agu-Amede community was also attacked when armed assailants, suspected to be herdsmen, invaded Imamamaru village. Two villagers were killed, several others were injured, and at least four homes were set ablaze.
These attacks followed an earlier assault three days prior in Isiado village, where two people were killed. The violence has forced many residents of the affected villages to flee their homes in fear.
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