The community of Otobi-Akpa in Otukpo Local Government Area, Benue State, was plunged into mourning yesterday as ten victims of a recent herdsmen attack were given a mass burial. It was a heartbreaking scene, with families, friends, and sympathizers gathering to honor the lives that were tragically cut short.

A Community In Mourning

The ceremony was filled with grief as caskets were lined up side by side, each representing a life lost in the devastating attack earlier this month.
Mourners, dressed in black, struggled to hold back tears as prayers were offered for the souls of the departed and for peace in the land.

Leaders Speak Out

Speaking during the burial, Prince Maxwell Ogiri, Chairman of Otukpo Local Government, described the day as one of the darkest in the history of Otobi-Akpa. He called for unity among the people and urged them to stand strong in the face of tragedy.

“We must not let fear divide us. Together, we will rebuild and heal,” he said.

Former federal lawmaker Francis Agbo Ottah was also present. He offered words of comfort to the grieving families and emphasized the need for resilience.

A Call for Security and Justice

Beyond the mourning, there were strong calls for improved security in rural communities. Residents of Otukpo urged state and federal authorities to take urgent action to prevent further attacks and protect lives.

Many stressed that the constant violence has left farming communities displaced, fearful, and unable to live normal lives.

A Painful Reminder

The mass burial in Otukpo is a painful reminder of the ongoing security challenges facing many parts of Benue State.
While the community mourns its loss, hopes remain high that meaningful steps will be taken to end the cycle of violence and restore peace to affected areas.

As the last casket was lowered into the earth, a shared prayer echoed across Otobi-Akpa: that such horror may never again visit their land.