A senseless act of violence has shaken the community of Akor village in Guma Local Government Area of Benue state, leaving a family in grief and a community in fear. Mr. Terzungwe Shaku, a prominent farmer and businessman, was brutally murdered by kidnappers suspected to be herdsmen after his family paid a ransom of N5.5 million for his release.
The tragic events unfolded just days before the new year, when Mr. Shaku was abducted from his business place by the marauding herdsmen. His family was left with no choice but to negotiate with the kidnappers, who initially demanded a staggering N20 million ransom.
After days of negotiations, the family managed to secure a reduced ransom of N5.5 million, which they promptly paid. However, in a shocking and devastating turn of events, the herdsmen callously murdered Mr. Shaku at the same spot where the ransom was dropped.
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A close family source, who wished to remain anonymous, recounted the horrific events. “We were told to drop the ransom at a specific spot, and we did. But barely had we left the area when we heard gunshots. We rushed back to find his lifeless body on the ground. It was like a nightmare come true.”
The senseless murder has sent shockwaves through the community, with many residents fleeing their homes in fear of being targeted by the marauding herdsmen. The police have yet to confirm the incident, with the Police Public Relations Officer, Chief Superintendent Catherine Anene, stating that she was yet to receive information on the incident.
The tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing insecurity and violence plaguing many parts of the country.