Gunmen Assassinate Former PDP Chairman in Tarka LGA, Benue State

 Unidentified gunmen have assassinated Hon. Aondoakaa Yayough, the former Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Tarka Local Government Area of Benue State, in a brazen targeted killing that has heightened fears in the region.

The incident occurred on Friday evening, around 8:00 pm, at Wannune Market along the Makurdi-Gboko Road in Tarka LGA. Eyewitnesses reported that the attackers arrived on motorbikes, inquired about Yayough's whereabouts, and shot him at close range before fleeing the scene.

The PDP State Publicity Secretary, Tim Nyior, confirmed the assassination in a telephone interview on Saturday, describing it as a great loss to the party and the community. Local residents noted that this was not the first attempt on Yayough's life; in a previous attack approximately one year earlier, his wife was tragically killed in what appeared to be a botched effort to target him.

Yayough also served as the Commander of the Nigeria Hunters and Forest Security Services (NHFSS) in Tarka LGA, a role that may have exposed him to risks amid ongoing security challenges in Benue State, including farmer-herder conflicts and banditry.

The killing has instilled fear and confusion in the Wannune community and surrounding areas, with residents calling for enhanced security measures to prevent further attacks on prominent figures.

Police authorities have launched an investigation into the incident, though no arrests have been reported as of the latest updates. The motive remains unclear, and security operatives are working to apprehend the perpetrators.

This assassination adds to a troubling pattern of violence against political figures in Benue State in recent years, amid persistent insecurity that has claimed numerous lives.

The PDP and community leaders have condemned the act, urging authorities to expedite investigations and bring those responsible to justice. Further details are awaited as the probe continues.