Mass Burial
Grief has enveloped the Akweya kingdom following the devastating terror attack on April 15th, 2025. His Royal Highness, the Okwyikwyi’Akweya, Pst. Wilson Great Pius Ahola, has announced a mass burial for the ten individuals who tragically lost their lives in the attack.
The solemn event is scheduled to take place on Sunday, April 27th, 2025, at 9:00 am at the Methodist Primary School in Otobi Akpa. The announcement by the revered monarch underscores the profound loss felt by the entire community.
Donation
In a show of solidarity and support, the Benue State Commissioner for Finance and Economic Planning, Hon. Michael Oglegba, who hails from the Akweya kingdom and holds the esteemed Idoma title of Ebo K’Idoma, has donated the sum of two million naira towards the burial arrangements. This significant contribution will undoubtedly provide much-needed assistance to the bereaved families and the community as a whole.
Befitting Burial
The depth of the community’s sorrow was further highlighted by a statement from the former Acting Chairman of Otukpo Local Government, who has been actively involved in the response efforts. He wrote, “AKWEYA MOURN! A visit to Otobi this evening will tell you the amount of grief in the land. The Otobi community youth are massively digging the grave for our falling heroes, and every arrangement will be completed tomorrow morning for the mass burial of the terrorist attack of April 15, 2025. We call on all great sons and daughters to support our District Head and ensure a befitting burial, and bring lasting peace to our land. Thank you.”
The former Acting Chairman’s words paint a vivid picture of a community united in grief and determined to honour their fallen. The active participation of the Otobi youth in preparing the burial site speaks volumes about the collective sense of loss and the desire to provide a dignified farewell to the victims.
Names of the Deceased
Speaking to AkweyaTV, a community leader, Comrade Ocheme Jackson, gave the names of the 10 adult male victims as: Samuel Idoko, Emmanuel O. Idoko, Idoko Ogbole, John Odaba, Johnson Inogwu Otobi, Sunday E.D. (a Federal Government staff), Stephen Kwaghna Gboko (Tiv man), Emaikwu Ejeh, Onoja Oplekwu, Ogiri Abutu, and Ajonye Odaba.
As the Akweya kingdom prepares for the mass burial, the call for support resonates deeply. The community hopes that the outpouring of grief and solidarity will not only ensure a befitting burial for their heroes but also pave the way for lasting peace in the land following this tragic event. The eyes of Benue State and beyond will be on Otobi this Sunday as the community comes together to mourn and begin the long journey of healing.
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