The people of Iwili community in Entekpa Ward, Otukpo Local Government Area, Benue State have once again been struck by tragedy. In a distressing incident reported on the 23rd of April, 2025, Mr. Emewa Ijamu, a respected elder of the Ai-Kogbeche kindred, lost his life in what locals describe as an ambush by armed assailants suspected to be herders.
For over three years, Iwili has faced ongoing security challenges, leading to the displacement of many residents. Families have been forced to flee their homes, leaving behind their farms — the mainstay of their livelihood — and struggling to survive in difficult conditions. This has had devastating effects on their wellbeing, with increased vulnerability to hunger, illness, and economic hardship.
The incident has intensified the community’s calls for help. According to eyewitnesses who requested anonymity for their safety, Mr. Ijamu had gone into the bush near his home to gather sticks to repair his grain barn. It was there he was reportedly ambushed, shot, and then attacked further.
Mr. Ijamu is survived by his two wives and eleven children, none of whom were present in the community at the time, having already sought refuge in nearby towns due to previous attacks.
In the wake of this tragedy, community members — especially the youth — are urging the Benue State Government to take urgent and concrete steps to improve the security situation. They are appealing directly to the Governor to declare a state of emergency in the area and intensify efforts to address the repeated incidents of violence.
“We voted with hope,” said one local youth. “But we have yet to see meaningful intervention in this crisis. We ask that anyone close to the Governor impress upon him the urgency of our plight.”
Since January 2023, farming in Iwili has been virtually impossible due to safety concerns. Movement to markets and neighboring villages has also been severely restricted.
The people of Iwili are not calling for blame or division — they are calling for peace, protection, and a return to normal life. They believe that with decisive action, lasting solutions can be found to end the cycle of violence and restore hope to their community.
