Gunmen, numbering over 20 have reportedly attacked the people of Ukwagba Ngbo in Ohaukwu local government area of Ebonyi State, killing at least one of the residents.

It was gathered that the incident occurred on Monday afternoon.

Two villages Ojiugo and Okpochiri were affected by the attacks with at least one person confirmed dead by residents.

Residents said the casualty figures could be higher as many persons are still missing. A member of the community, who confirmed the attack to our correspondent, said the community suspected that the attackers were from neighbouring Agila in Ado local government area of Benue state.

The source, who did not want his name mentioned, recalled that the community had been enmeshed in a protracted boundary dispute with the Agila people.

“The gunmen were many, and they were shooting sporadically. People ran helter-skelter. In the end, many persons are feared dead while some were declared missing. It was discovered that the attackers abducted some of the people.”

However, chairman of Ohaukwu local government area, Omekannaya Odah, confirmed the attack in a statement.

Odah, in the statement, said: “Ohaukwu Local Government Council has received with concern, report of the security breaches and attack against the innocent people of Ojiogu and Okpochiri Ukwagba Ngbo on Monday the 27th of June, 2022.

“The Council condemns the incident in the strongest terms and reassure all that no stones will be left unturned to unravel the true circumstances that led to such unwarranted attack and loss of lives and properties.

“Council has liaised with appropriate security agents to immediately move into the troubled area while working assiduously with the relevant stakeholders with a view to ensure a quick return of peace and normalcy to Ukwagba.” (Text, except for amended headline: The Nation)