At least three farmers have been killed in a fresh wave of violence by suspected herdsmen in the Mgbuji community, located in the Eha-Amufu, Isi-Uzo Local Government Area of Enugu State.
The attacks, which occurred early on Friday, also left several others injured.
One of the victims was found slaughtered on his rice farm, his body lying next to a basket of harvested cassava, indicating the brutal nature of the assault.
Video footage shared with City Round revealed the gruesome scene.
The attacks are part of ongoing violence between herders and farmers in the community.
From 2019 to 2022, clashes over destroyed farmlands led to the displacement of over 20 farm settlements in the Eha-Amufu area and the deaths of at least 123 locals.
A community leader, Ogenyi Odoh, who confirmed the latest killings, called for urgent government intervention to curb the violence.
He condemned the attacks, describing the killings as acts of “savagery.”
“These people were simply on their farms, and herdsmen entered, destroyed crops, and then killed them. One of the victims was murdered on his rice farm, and in another video, you can see the large rice field destroyed by these herdsmen,” Odoh stated.
He also questioned the government’s commitment to security, noting that violence had resumed after the withdrawal of military personnel stationed in the area before the elections.
Odoh expressed concern about the limited security presence, with only six soldiers assigned to protect an extensive area near the Benue State border.
He emphasized that while local vigilantes are trying to help, they are outmatched by herders who are reportedly armed with AK-47 rifles.
The community leader also spoke about the dire situation faced by a victim who was brought to Parklane hospital.
“The victim was rejected, and doctors are currently battling to save his life in a private hospital, where a staggering N3 million is being demanded for treatment.”
Enugu State Police Public Relations Officer, Daniel Ndukwe, when contacted, denied having received reports of the incident, stating, “I have not received any reports regarding such events.”
