In a tragic escalation of the lingering communal crisis between Obudu in Cross River State and Mbaduku in Vandeikya Local Government Area of Benue State, a young driver from Gboko, identified as Ternenge, was reportedly ambushed and stoned to death by a mob on a highway in Cross River.
Ternenge, who earned his living transporting goods, had reportedly conveyed items for a passenger to Obudu when he fell victim to the violence linked to the cross-border dispute. According to eyewitnesses and a harrowing video shared widely on social media, the young man was brutally attacked and killed in what many have condemned as an unjust and barbaric act.
Dr. Elijah, who identified himself as Ternenge’s uncle, confirmed the incident in a heart-wrenching social media post, writing:
“My nephew, Ternenge, was a victim in the Obudu/Mbaduku crisis. As a driver, he conveyed goods for his passenger to Obudu but never came back. He was ambushed and mobbed to death.”
The motive for the killing remains unclear, but it is believed to be connected to rising tensions and hostilities between youths of both communities. Observers, however, insist that Ternenge had no involvement in the conflict and was targeted solely due to his origin.
Online users expressed collective outrage over the attack. One commenter, Queen Eva Dosh, wrote:
“What is wrong with humanity, for goodness’ sake? How can you stone a fellow human to death? This guy did not steal or harm anyone. Watching that video has ruined my day.”
The gruesome killing has sparked national condemnation, with civil society organizations and community leaders demanding an immediate investigation and justice for the slain driver.
As of the time of filing this report, neither the Benue nor Cross River State governments have issued official statements regarding the incident. Nonetheless, calls for a coordinated security response and peaceful dialogue between the affected communities have intensified.
Ternenge’s death is a painful reminder of the senseless loss that continues to trail communal conflicts in Nigeria — a tragedy that has once again exposed the urgent need for meaningful conflict resolution and rule of law.
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