Social media activist Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), has alleged that a video sent to him by some Fulani individuals may explain the fresh attack in Benue State.
The activist made the claim after reports of a deadly attack on communities in Otukpo Local Government Area,Benue state. Rescue teams reportedly recovered about 50 bodies. Search efforts continued as officials expected the death toll to rise. Doctors also treated several injured victims in hospital.
According to VDM, some Fulani individuals contacted him after news of the attack broke. They sent him a video, which he believes may have contributed to the violence.
VDM claimed the video showed an Idoma social media influencer celebrating the release of suspects arrested over the killing of the Benue State chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), Alhaji Ardo Mohammed.
He argued that the video may have fueled tension. He also alleged that it may have triggered a reprisal attack.
Explaining his position, VDM said he woke up to reports of the killings before receiving the messages and the video.
“I woke up to the sad news that Fulani attackers invaded a village in Otukpo Local Government Area of Benue State and killed many people. About 50 bodies have been recovered, and the number is still rising.
It was said to be a revenge attack over the killing of the Miyetti Allah chairman about two weeks ago. I also received a message from some Fulani people. They sent me a particular video, and I believe that was what triggered the whole incident,” he said.
Earlier, unidentified gunmen reportedly killed Mohammed on June 26 after he attended a peace meeting in Ohinmini Local Government Area. His death sparked widespread condemnation and raised fears of fresh violence.
Meanwhile, residents of the affected communities continue to mourn those who lost their lives. Families are searching for missing relatives. Doctors continue to treat several injured victims in hospital.
As stated by daily post,VDM maintained that the video he received could explain what happened before the latest attack. He made the allegation while reacting to the incident in Benue State.
