Bloodshed in Edo: Seven Killed, Six Injured as Cocoa Farmers Clash with Armed Militants

Tensions have erupted into bloodshed in Edo State’s Ovia South West Local Government Area, where a violent confrontation between cocoa farmers and suspected armed militants has left at least seven people dead and six others critically injured.

The crisis, which began last Thursday at Madotti farm camp, spiraled into a full-scale assault over the weekend, with gunmen launching coordinated attacks on seven farm settlements. Eyewitnesses claim the death toll could be higher than officially reported.

The affected communities—home to farmers from Yoruba, Hausa, Igbo, and Benin ethnic backgrounds—include Marindoti, Gbelemontin Domiju, Kola Village, Taiye Camp, Eto Camp, Dipe Community, Bala Dele Community, and Thousand Community.

Confirming the incident in a statement on Sunday, the spokesperson for the Edo State Police Command, CSP Moses Yamu, disclosed that security forces responded swiftly to distress calls.

> “On 21/02/2025 at about 1000hrs, the Command received a distress call about an ongoing clash between Gbelemonti and Maidoti Communities in Ovia North East LGA. Operatives of the Iguobazuwa Police Division, in collaboration with the Nigerian Army and local vigilantes, were immediately deployed. The team evacuated casualties to the hospital, where seven persons were confirmed dead, while six others are currently receiving treatment,” Yamu stated.



He assured that joint security operations have stabilized the area, with law enforcement maintaining a strong presence to prevent further escalation.

Edo State Commissioner of Police, CP Betty Enekpen Isokpan Otimenyin, condemned the violence, vowing to bring the perpetrators to justice.

> “No stone will be left unturned in unraveling the circumstances behind this tragic and avoidable incident. The public is urged to seek lawful channels to address disputes rather than resorting to violence,” she warned.

The clash has reignited concerns over security in Edo’s agricultural belt, where farmers have repeatedly faced attacks from armed groups and produce thieves. Many locals fear renewed violence if authorities fail to take decisive action against the assailants.

As investigations continue, residents are calling for enhanced security measures to protect farmers and prevent future conflicts in the region.