- By Our Reporter
A farmer in Kogi State, Abdulkareem Jimoh, has recounted a harrowing experience where suspected Fulani herdsmen attacked their farmland, resulting in the deaths of about 10 people, including Mr. John Anighoro Otajonor, Janet Andy, Lucia Bacha among others.
Abdulkareem, a resident of Oguma in Bassa Local Government Area, explained that the herdsmen launched a commando-style attack, leaving the farmers no chance to escape.
According to him, on January 8, 2024, Mr. Otajonor and his family members were working on the farm when the assailants arrived and opened fire. “We were working when we heard gunshots. Initially, we thought they were Boko Haram, and we all ran for our lives. After the shooting stopped, we searched for our families and friends.”
Abdulkareem added that when they returned to the village, they found many people had been shot and killed with properties destroyed. A search party later discovered Mr. Otajonor lifeless body in a pool of blood. His daughter-in-law was also found, having been brutally raped.
Another villager, who wished to remain anonymous, corroborated the account, stating that many villagers were shot, raped, or stabbed. Some victims were taken to the hospital, where Mr. Otajonor was confirmed dead. Fear of further attacks has led some villagers to abandon their farmland and properties, seeking refuge in another state.
