By Deborah Nnamdi
At least six people are feared dead following a renewed violent clash between members of the Ezza community in Ado Local Government Area (LGA) of Benue State and their Effium neighbors from Ebonyi State.
The long-standing conflict between the two communities has persisted for decades, resisting numerous attempts at resolution.
According to a local source who requested anonymity, the latest outbreak of violence occurred around 2:30 p.m. on Saturday, April 19, 2025, when gunmen, allegedly from the Effium community, launched an attack on Ezza, firing indiscriminately.
He said: “The people were going about their normal business when the Effium fighters from neighboring Ebonyi state stormed Ezza at about 2:30 pm, shooting sporadically at the people.
“The attack was unprovoked, and no one can explain why they decided to invade the community, particularly during this Easter season.
“As we speak, about six persons have been killed, and several others have also been injured. It is more painful because women and children are fleeing their homes when they are supposed to be at home enjoying Easter.
“The situation is still tense because as we speak, the invaders are still in the attacked community, and they are shooting and looting the people’s valuables and food.”
Efforts to reach CSP Catherine Anene, the Ebonyi State Police Public Relations Officer, for comment proved abortive.
