The attack, which reportedly began on Monday, April 27, has seen the community deserted, with men, women, and youths fleeing into nearby bushes to escape heavy gunfire from machine guns.
Panic has gripped the Ugbineh community in the Ovia North-East Local Government Area of Edo State following an onslaught by masked gunmen allegedly led by one Dominic Edobor, SaharaReporters has learnt.
The attack, which reportedly began on Monday, April 27, has seen the community deserted, with men, women, and youths fleeing into nearby bushes to escape heavy gunfire from machine guns...READ FULL STORY; FROM THE SOURCE.
As of Saturday morning, May 2, 2026, sources within the community told SaharaReporters that only the alleged leader of the armed group and his masked cohorts remained in the town, which has now been turned into a “ghost town.”
A distressed resident, who spoke on condition of anonymity for safety reasons, told SaharaReporters that the invasion has left at least nine persons with severe gunshot injuries.
The source also accused the police of negligence, claiming that the authorities were formally notified of the impending attack but failed to intervene.
“We duly informed the Nigeria police authority on time before the invasions and heavy armed attacks, but it was deliberately ignored to encourage the mayhem. Those that should be protecting lives and properties of citizens are now the weapon fashioned against the same people,” the resident lamented.
The conflict is reportedly linked to a leadership tussle over the position of the Okaeghele (youth leader). Residents have questioned the legitimacy of a “self-imposed” leader who allegedly relies on violence and charms to sustain authority.
The fleeing villagers expressed despair over the lack of protection from the government, traditional leaders, and law enforcement, raising questions about whether citizens should resort to self-defence.
When SaharaReporters contacted, the Edo State Police Command’s spokesperson, ASP Eno Nkereuwem Ikoedem, the phone lines immediately not available as the number reportedly switched off.
However, a senior officer in the command, who is not authorized to speak to the press, told SaharaReporters that the situation is being monitored.
For now, the wounded remain without adequate medical attention as the community remains under the control of the armed group, leaving the displaced residents to weather the elements in the forest.
