A devastating attack by suspected militants has left at least 22 people dead and several others injured in seven communities in Ovia South West Local Government Area of Edo State. The incident occurred on Friday, February 21, 2025 .
The affected communities, including Marindoti, Gbelemontin Domiju, Kola Village, Taiye Camp, Eto Camp, Dipe, Bala Dele, and Thousand, were predominantly inhabited by farmers from various ethnic backgrounds. eyewitnesses described the scene as “traumatic” and “apocalyptic,” with many homes reduced to ashes and once-thriving farming communities now resembling ghost towns.
According to sources, the assailants, suspected to be Ijaw militants from nearby creeks, stormed the settlements early in the morning with arms and other deadly weapons. They unleashed terror by shooting indiscriminately, setting houses ablaze, and destroying property, including motorcycles and vehicles .
The attack is believed to be a reprisal for the killing of a suspected cocoa thief by local vigilantes employed by the farmers. This incident has heightened existing tensions between the farmers and the alleged militants, who had previously been accused of encroaching on farmland and stealing produce.
Community leaders, including Igbala Obazuaye, head of Marindoti community, and Nafisat Abdulazeez, a resident of Dipe community, have appealed for military protection, the establishment of a local police station, and assistance in rebuilding their communities.
The Edo State Government has been called upon to intervene immediately and provide support to the affected communities. The incident has also highlighted the need for increased security measures to protect farmers and communities in the region.
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