The Benue State Police Command has dispelled rumours that herdsmen were responsible for the recent shooting in Wannune, Tarka Local Government Area, instead identifying the perpetrator as a known ex-convict with a history of violent crimes.
Police Commissioner Emmanuel Adesina addressed journalists in Makurdi on Sunday, providing details about the arrest of the suspect linked to the attack that left two people injured.
According to the police investigation, the suspect—whose identity has not yet been publicly disclosed—had been released from prison months earlier and had since been involved in criminal activities in the area.
Contrary to initial speculation linking the violence to herder-farmer conflicts, authorities confirmed that the shooting stemmed from a personal dispute unrelated to communal clashes.
The police commissioner urged residents to avoid spreading misinformation that could escalate tensions in the state, emphasising that security agencies were working to maintain peace.
He assured the public that the suspect would face prosecution, while also warning other criminals in the state to desist from violence or face the law.
Community leaders in Wannune have commended the police for their swift response but called for increased surveillance to prevent further incidents. The Benue State government has also reiterated its commitment to supporting security agencies in tackling crime, regardless of its origins.
This Wannune clarification comes amid heightened sensitivity over security challenges in Benue, where conflicts between herders and farmers have previously led to deadly confrontations. Authorities have appealed for calm while continuing investigations into the incident.
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cc: Daily Post Ng
