Tension has engulfed Otobi-Akpa community in Otukpo Local Government Area of Benue State following a spate of deadly attacks by suspected armed herdsmen, leaving multiple fatalities and widespread destruction in their wake.
The once-tranquil community, home to the Federal Government College (FGC) Otobi, has come under repeated assaults in recent weeks. The most recent attack, which occurred on Tuesday, claimed at least 11 lives and saw several homes burnt to the ground.
In response to the deteriorating security situation, the management of FGC Otobi has commenced the evacuation of staff from the school premises, citing concerns over their safety.
The situation has sparked widespread anxiety among parents and students, particularly as the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) approaches in May. Many now fear the attacks could derail students’ academic futures.
Mrs. Charity Ejeh, a parent, voiced her distress over the growing insecurity and its impact on her child’s education.
“It’s heartbreaking. My son is supposed to be writing his WAEC next month, but how do we send them back to school when the community is no longer safe? The government must act swiftly,” she said.
Similarly, Mr. Matthew Adaji, another parent, decried the government’s inaction despite ongoing appeals.
“We have been crying for help, yet these killings continue. Now, the school is evacuating staff. What happens to our children’s education?” he queried.
A final-year student of the college, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the unrest has disrupted their preparations for the examinations.
“We are afraid. Some of our teachers have already left, and our parents are scared to send us back. I have WAEC in a few weeks, and I don’t know if I’ll be able to sit for it,” she said.
When contacted for comment, Mr. Waakaven Gabriel, Secretary of the Tenders Board at FGC Otobi, declined to speak on the matter, advising the reporter to approach the Ministry of Education instead.
“I’m not in a position to comment. Please contact the ministry for any official statement,” he said.
Meanwhile, Hon. Angbo Kennedy, member representing Otukpo/Akpa State Constituency in the Benue State House of Assembly, condemned the persistent bloodshed and urged security agencies to take immediate action.
Speaking on Channels TV’s Morning Brief, Kennedy said, “It’s heartbreaking that innocent people are being slaughtered in their homes. Our people should not be forced to live in fear on their own land.”
He further suggested that, in the absence of decisive intervention, residents may have no choice but to resort to self-defense to protect their lives and property.
