A National Youth Service Corps member, Ben Agir Une, has reportedly died after being attacked by a community vigilante group in Buruku Local Government Area of Benue State, in what authorities say was a case of mistaken identity.
The incident, which occurred late Sunday night between 11 pm and midnight at Mbajor settlement near the Buruku LGA Secretariat, has triggered outrage and renewed concerns over the conduct of local security outfits.
Chairman of Buruku LGA, Raymond Aondoakura, confirmed the development on Thursday, describing the killing as tragic and completely unjustifiable.
Une, an indigene of Tongov in Katsina-Ala LGA, was said to be serving in Gombe State at the time of the incident. He was allegedly intercepted during a night patrol by vigilante members who suspected him of motorcycle theft.
The situation reportedly escalated before the corps member could properly identify himself or present his NYSC identification card.
According to the council chairman, one of the vigilante leaders allegedly ordered the attack, insisting the victim was being dishonest about his identity.
The assault left Une critically injured, and he was later rushed to a hospital where medical personnel confirmed him dead.
Following the incident, Aondoakura said all individuals involved have been arrested and handed over to the police for investigation and prosecution.
He also announced the immediate suspension of vigilante activities in the area, adding that the groups have been disbanded pending proper regulatory reforms.
Residents of the community said the deceased was just weeks away from completing his national service before the fatal encounter cut his life short.
Efforts to obtain official comments from the Benue State Police Command were unsuccessful at the time of filing this report.
The incident has once again raised questions about the use of vigilante groups in local security operations and the need for stricter oversight to prevent abuse.
