JUSTICE FOR NGBEDE: Agatu Youths Demand Probe Into Killing of Young Man Allegedly Shot by Military Officer in Nasarawa
_By Ochochi Reporter_
_Abuja | August 4, 2026_
Tragedy has struck the Agatu community as a young man, *Ngbede*, an indigene of Agatu LGA of Benue State working with Avatar Company in Nasarawa State, was allegedly shot dead by a military officer following a minor disagreement.
According to a statement by the Convener/National President of Agatu Indigenous Youth Association, AIYA, *Comr. Ochokwunu Daniel Edor*, the incident occurred after a “little misunderstanding” between Ngbede and a supposed Fulani military officer.
Comr. Edor alleged that the matter escalated possibly due to ethnic profiling, as the officer reportedly viewed the deceased as an “enemy” because he is Agatu.
“The military officer who is supposed to protect lives shot the young man on his leg, and if not for God who arrested the situation he would have shot more persons in the process,” the statement read.
Ngbede was rushed to the hospital but reportedly died due to excessive loss of blood. His body has since been deposited at the mortuary.
*Calls for Justice*
The AIYA President condemned the killing and called on authorities not to allow the case to be swept under the carpet.
“We cannot allow our people to always be at the mercy of the Fulani people at every given opportunity they find. Justice for this young man must be served,” he said.
He noted that information available to the group indicates that the said officer has been arrested by the Military Police, but expressed concern over how the case will be handled.
*Leaders Urged to Intervene*
AIYA is calling on Benue State and federal authorities to ensure justice is served. Leaders mentioned include:
– *Gov. Hyacinth Iormem Alia*, Governor of Benue State
– *Sen. Comrade Abba Moro*, Senator Representing Benue South Zone C
– *Hon. Ojotu Ojema*, Member, House of Representatives, Apa/Agatu Federal Constituency
– *Hon. Godwin Abu Edoh*, Member, Benue State House of Assembly, Agatu Constituency
– *Hon. James Melvin Ejeh*, Executive Chairman, Agatu Local Government Council
“We cannot continue to lose our children to the hand of these heartless militia both within and without every now and then without intervention. We await your actions,” Comr. Edor added.
The group has also rallied support online with the hashtags *#JUSTICEFORNGBEDE* and *#JUSTICE4NGBEDE*.
As at press time, efforts to get an official reaction from the Nigerian Army and Nasarawa State Police Command were ongoing.
*May the soul of Ngbede rest in peace.*