Tension has escalated in Ataroga, a border community between Ebonyi and Benue states, following the killing of several cows by suspected gunmen.
The incident, which reportedly occurred in the early hours of Sunday, has sparked fear and displacement, with many residents fleeing the area.
Ataroga, an Izzi-speaking community in Ado Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, was said to have been largely deserted amid claims of destroyed homes and looted property.
A video circulating on social media shows distressed residents calling on the government and security agencies for urgent intervention.
In the footage, a community member alleged that suspected attackers invaded the area around 4 a.m., killed cattle, and chased away herdsmen, triggering reprisals.
Residents insist the Izzi people were not responsible for the attack and appealed to Ebonyi State Governor, Francis Nwifuru, to protect the community.
There are also unverified reports of retaliatory attacks, including arson and loss of lives.
Security agencies have reportedly made arrests and launched investigations, but tension remains high as residents await decisive action to restore peace.
