Suspected herdsmen have k!lled two farmers, identified as Lucky Salami and Julius Arewa, in Eware Village, Etsako West Local Government Area of Edo State.

The victims were hacked to d3ath with machetes on Thursday, February 27, 2025.

A third victim, identified as Omokhagbon Abu, popularly known as Udugboya, is said to be battling for his life at an undisclosed hospital.

The latest incident occurred a few days after herders k!lled three persons, including a vigilante commander in Okpekpe, Etsako East, and Ivbiaro, Owan East.

The Chairman of Etsako West Local Government Area, Marvelous Zibiri, confirmed the attack in a statement on Thursday.

A statement by his Press Secretary, Iyamah Nurudeen, said the attack occurred in Eware Village, Ward 8 Anwain.

“This dastardly and heinous act has not only claimed the innocent lives of two persons but has also left another victim hospitalised, instilling fear and unrest in the peaceful community of Eware and its environs,” the statement read.

“The incident is a barbaric and unacceptable act that has undermined the peace and security of Etsako West Local Government Area. The local government will not tolerate any form of violence or lawlessness that threatens the lives and livelihoods of its people.”

While commiserating with the families of the deceased, Zibiri urged the state government and security agencies to swiftly investigate the incident and bring the perpetrators to justice.

He stressed the need for increased security presence in rural communities to prevent further violence and protect farmers, whom he described as the backbone of the local economy.

Zibiri also appealed to residents to remain calm and law-abiding, urging community leaders and stakeholders to work with security agencies by providing useful information that could lead to the arrest of the culprits.