VIGILANTE COMMANDER, HERDSMAN NABBED OVER DEADLY HIGHWAY ATTACKS IN BENUE STATE. (PHOTO).

 OTUKPO-OWETO SHOCKER: VIGILANTE COMMANDER, HERDSMAN NABBED OVER DEADLY HIGHWAY ATTACKS

24th November, 2025   

Momentum is finally turning against the gunmen who turned the Otukpo–Oweto corridor into a feared stretch. Police have arrested three key suspects linked to the brutal attack on Anwule community in Ohimini LGA, where several residents including a pastor were murdered.

Those in custody include Isah Peter and Moses Peter from Agatu LGA, alongside a Fulani herdsman. Investigators say Isah, who served as acting commander of the Eguma community vigilante group, allegedly deployed a community-owned firearm during the operation in Anwule.

The 22-year-old reportedly confessed to acting on the orders of a shadowy figure known as “Pepper,” who instructed him to supply the weapon. He also admitted involvement in a string of violent incidents that have plagued the Otukpo–Oweto road.

For months, the highway has earned the grim reputation of a “dead zone,” with travellers frequently ambushed by armed gangs made up of rogue vigilante elements and herdsmen. Killings, kidnappings, and nighttime road fears have become commonplace across Idoma communities.

Commenting on the arrests, activist Meddy Olotu urged a sweeping probe into the activities of vigilantes and herdsmen along the troubled route.

“It is shocking that those entrusted with community protection have become instruments of terror,” he said, calling for a full investigation to restore public trust.

Police say more arrests are imminent as they work to break the network behind the attacks and rebuild confidence along the embattled corridor.