Tension gripped Owukpa, Benue State, on Thursday, September 18, 2025, after a tragic incident in which a man was reportedly hacked to death by a suspected mentally unstable individual in the Ipiege–Igah-Uroko axis of Itabono.
Eyewitnesses recounted that the suspect, believed to be a native of Otukpa-Ukalegu in Itabono Ward 1, allegedly trekked nearly five kilometres before arriving at the scene of the attack. Upon reaching Ipiege, he reportedly unleashed violence with a machete, fatally striking his victim. Afterward, he continued moving through parts of the community, allegedly destroying property and instilling fear among residents.
The shocking incident quickly sparked outrage. Videos shared online captured chaotic scenes of angry youths retaliating by setting fire to the suspect’s residence and nearby structures. The destruction was described by witnesses as both an act of vengeance and a warning against further violence.
Community leaders and residents voiced mixed reactions. Some demanded that the suspect be immediately restrained to prevent additional attacks, while others insisted he must be interrogated to establish whether he acted alone or was influenced by external forces.
Security operatives were swiftly deployed to the troubled area to forestall escalation. According to reports, calm has gradually been restored, but locals say fear still lingers as the community processes the shocking loss of life.
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