The Benue State branch of the Labour Party, LP, has verified the assassination of its Chairman, Mr. Nathaniel Ochoche, in an ambush by armed herders in Ankpali village, Edikwu District, Apa Local Government Area, Benue State.

Mr. Ochoche was claimed to be one of four mourners slain in an ambush over the weekend that left several injured and several others missing.

The deceased was the party’s Edikwu Ward 2 Chairman in Apa, according to a statement issued in Makurdi by the party’s Publicity Secretary, Mr. Tersoo Orbunde.

“It is with great sadness that the Benue State Secretariat of the Labour Party learned of the heinous murder of its Chairman in Edikwu Ward 2 in Apa LGA, Nathaniel Ochoche, who was ambushed and killed by armed Fulani militia,” it said.

“Until his death, Mr. Ochoche was a consummate party man who worked tirelessly in both words and deeds for the growth of his community, constituency, and country.”

“An ardent Labour Party member whose legacy of contribution, particularly in the recently concluded 2023 general elections, will always have a special place of pride, honour, and admiration in the annals of history.”

“While describing his death as one too many, the Benue State Executive Committee of the Labour Party expresses its heartfelt condolences to the deceased’s wife, children, and entire family members over this terrible and unfortunate incident.”

“As a people-centered party, we condemn in total the ongoing callous acts of armed Fulani militia.”

“As a result, we call on the Federal and state governments, as well as all relevant authorities and stakeholders, to rise to the occasion of protecting people’s lives and property and putting an end to unjustified killings by suspected criminal Fulani herdsmen.”

“It is past time for the relevant authorities to put a stop to these attacks and killings and allow our people to return to their farms for the growing season.”