Panic has gripped Ugbineh community in Ovia North-East Local Government Area of Edo State following an attack by masked gunmen allegedly led by one Dominic Edobor, SaharaReporters has learnt.
The assault, which reportedly began on Monday, April 27, forced the community into chaos, with men, women, and youths fleeing into nearby bushes to escape sustained gunfire from machine guns.
As of Saturday morning, May 2, 2026, sources said the community had been largely deserted, with only the alleged armed leader and his masked associates still occupying the area, which has now reportedly become a “ghost town.”
A resident, who spoke anonymously for safety reasons, said at least nine people sustained severe gunshot injuries during the attack.
The source also accused the police of negligence, claiming that authorities were alerted ahead of the invasion but failed to act.
“We duly informed the Nigeria Police authority on time before the invasion and heavy armed attacks, but it was deliberately ignored to encourage the mayhem.
Those who should be protecting lives and property are now the weapon fashioned against the same people,” the resident said.
The unrest is said to stem from a leadership dispute over the position of Okaeghele (youth leader).
Residents have also raised concerns over the emergence of a “self-imposed” leader allegedly backed by violence and spiritual intimidation to maintain control.
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