Two farmers, Lucky Salami and Julius Arewa, were killed in an attack in Eware Village, Etsako West Local Government Area of Edo State.
The victims were attacked with machetes on Thursday, 27th February 2025. The attack is suspected to have been carried out by herdsmen.
A third individual, Omokhagbon Abu, also known as Udugboya, sustained injuries and is currently receiving medical treatment at an undisclosed hospital.
This incident follows a recent series of attacks in the Etsako East and Owan East regions, where three people, including a vigilante commander, were killed in Okpekpe and Ivbiaro.
Marvelous Zibiri, Chairman of Etsako West Local Government Area, confirmed the attack in a statement released on Thursday through his Press Secretary, Iyamah Nurudeen.
The statement detailed that the attack occurred in Eware Village, Ward 8 Anwain. “This dastardly and heinous act has not only claimed the innocent lives of two persons but has also left another victim hospitalised, instilling fear and unrest in the peaceful community of Eware and its environs,” the statement read.
“The incident is a barbaric and unacceptable act that has undermined the peace and security of Etsako West Local Government Area. The local government will not tolerate any form of violence or lawlessness that threatens the lives and livelihoods of its people.”
Chairman Zibiri expressed his condolences to the families of the deceased and called upon the state government and security agencies to conduct a thorough investigation and apprehend those responsible.
He emphasised the need for increased security presence in rural communities to protect farmers, who he recognised as vital to the local economy.
He also appealed to residents to remain calm and law-abiding, and encouraged community leaders and stakeholders to cooperate with security agencies by providing any relevant information that could assist in the investigation.
