Suspected gunmen on Thursday night stormed Olegabulu community in Agatu Local Government Area, killing a traditional ruler, his wife, their child, and several other residents, Naija Street Maters reports.

Those killed were identified as Momo Alexander Awodi, his wife Abigail Awodi, and their son Boniface Ochowechi. Others reportedly lost in the incident include Ochowechi Ochegwu and Deborah Ochowechi.

A local source, who chose to remain anonymous, suggested the attack might not be related to herdsmen as initially suspected but could instead be tied to a communal dispute.

“From the signs we’re seeing, it doesn’t appear to be a herdsmen attack. Olegabulu sits between two communities, and there have been tensions over time,” the source explained.

The source also disclosed that unfamiliar individuals were spotted passing through the village square shortly before the incident, greeting locals in the Agatu dialect.

“Some strangers moved through the square and greeted people in Agatu, which has left many confused about what really happened,” he added.

He noted that the community had enjoyed relative peace for years without any major violent incidents, making the attack even more shocking.

“Olegabulu has been peaceful for a long time. We’ve not witnessed anything like this in recent years,” he said.

The source further pointed out that the community is located near the hometown of the current Agatu LGA Chairman, Melvin Ejeh.

Reacting to the incident, Ejeh described it as tragic and heartbreaking, urging residents to remain calm.

“This is a painful and devastating occurrence. I appeal to our people to stay calm and avoid taking the law into their own hands. Security operatives have been deployed, and investigations are ongoing to track down those behind this act,” he said.

He added that the local government, alongside security agencies, is working to restore normalcy and prevent further violence in the area.