Many residents flee as suspected Fulani herdsmen attack Edo community

Suspected herdsmen attacked Sobe community in Owan West Local Government Area in Edo State, injuring one person and kidnapping a child.

The attack was established to have occurred on the night of Tuesday, March 21, 2023, two weeks after alleged shepherds killed three people, including a pastor from the same community.

According to Nigerian Tribune, many residents of the community have fled their homes for security reasons.

The attack, according to villagers, was the sixth of its kind since January this year.

In the latest attack, it was further established that a barber, called Monday, was attacked with a machete and left for dead by his attackers.

Some brave villagers reportedly quickly came to the victim’s aid and took him to the hospital, where he is recovering from his injuries.

“This is yet another tragic moment for the residents of the Sobe community as suspected herders once again invaded the community on Tuesday. A barber called in on Monday and his family were attacked in their own home overnight,” said explained the source, who pleaded anonymity.

“The shepherds ambushed him until Monday came home and when they saw him they macheted him and left him in the pool of his blood. The invaders also kidnapped one monday children and stole other valuables.

“The victim was taken to the community health center where he received treatment and is in stable condition. But the shepherds have not yet reached the family of the kidnapped boy.

“The herdsmen then entered part of the community and began to search for vulnerable victims. We hereby call upon the Sobe Division of the Nigerian Police and all other forces to come to our assistance,” the source added.