Tragedy struck in Agatu Local Government Area of Benue State as a 54-year-old farmer, Jeremiah Onuminya, lost his life while attempting to escape after a false alarm was raised in his community.
According to eyewitnesses, Onuminya was on his way to his farm when sudden shouts of “Fulani! Fulani!!”;; from panicked youths caused widespread fear. In an attempt to flee, he collapsed just a few meters from his home and died on the spot.
Confirming the incident, the Local Government Chairman, Melvin James, extended his condolences to the deceased’s family, stating that Onuminya’s death occurred as he was trying to run for safety.
“In an effort to determine the exact cause of death, the chairman suggested an autopsy; however, the family declined, accepting that Mr. Onuminya’s passing resulted from health complications,”;; he added.
The tragic event has left the community in mourning, highlighting the unintended consequences of fear-induced panic.
