Terrorists entered the palace of a traditional ruler in Olegabulu community, Agatu Local Government Area of Benue State, on Thursday night and took the lives of five people.
The victims include Chief Momo Alexander Awodi, the traditional ruler of the community, his wife Abigail Awodi, and their son Boniface Ochowechi.
The other two who lost their lives were Mr Ochowechi Ochegwu and Mrs Deborah Ochowechi.
One person sustained injuries during the incident.
Residents said four terrorists arrived on two motorcycles around 8pm.
They spoke the local dialect as they moved through the community, which helped them blend in with people.
They went straight to the palace, opened fire on the ruler and members of his family, and stayed for about 20 minutes before they left.
The chairman of Agatu Local Government Area, Melvin Ejeh, confirmed the incident.
He said the community now sits in mourning after the loss.
Police officers visited the scene soon after the attack to begin their work.
This event adds to the ongoing security problems in parts of Benue State.
People in the area have faced repeated violence in recent times, and many now wonder how such incidents continue to happen inside a palace that should offer safety.
Local sources who did not want their names used described the fear that spread through Olegabulu after the shooting stopped.
Families gathered to support one another as news of the deaths travelled quickly.
Authorities have promised to investigate fully and bring those responsible to justice.
For now, the community focuses on laying the victims to rest and looking after those left behind.
