A tense atmosphere has gripped Gwer West Local Government Area in Benue State following the murder of two persons by suspected bandits on major access roads into the region.
One of the victims was reportedly slain at Atukpu village, close to Naka, the local council headquarters, while returning home with building materials on Wednesday.
The second incident occurred the same day along the Naka-Adoka route, further heightening public fears.
In a telephone conversation with Daily Trust, local residents expressed growing frustration and fear, saying the region’s main roads, Makurdi-Naka, Taraku-Naka, and Naka-Adoka, have all become perilous due to relentless attacks by armed criminals.
Confirming the incidents, Chairman of Gwer West, Victor Ormin, said the security situation has deteriorated.
“We’re dealing with constant attacks now. The roads are no longer safe, and these crimes are creeping closer to Naka itself,” he said.
Ormin noted that the proximity of the attacks to the council headquarters shows the brazenness of the assailants and the limitations of current security arrangements, despite the state government’s efforts.
Attempts to get police comments on the matter were unsuccessful as the command’s spokesperson, CSP Catherine Anene, had not responded as of Thursday evening.