Uche Onyema, Owerri
A vigilante was killed, another wounded, and a third is missing after a violent clash between herdsmen and local security operatives in Amakohia-Ubi community, Owerri West Local Government Area of Imo State.
The incident occurred on Wednesday evening, sparking palpable tension in the area.
The clash was said to have happened around 6:30 p.m. when vigilantes attempted to resist the entry of herders and their cows into farmlands, leading to a heavy gun duel.
One vigilante, Monday Nwaozuzu, popularly known as Ojo Ola, was allegedly killed, while another was wounded. A third vigilante is still missing, with fears of abduction.
The community has been searching for the missing vigilante since last night, but to no avail. When his phone line was called, one of the herdsmen answered, leaving uncertainty about his fate.
The community has been under severe attacks by herders in recent months, with farmlands being destroyed and residents kidnapped.
Despite a police visit to the scene, which calmed the tense situation, many indigenes have fled to neighboring communities and towns.
