[News] Two killed during Christmas carnival in Benue

A Christmas carnival at Otukpo Local Government Area of Benue State ended up bloody, as two people were reportedly killed.

The deceased died after a policeman allegedly shot into the crowd during the music carnival which was organized by a young millionaire, and also had Davido as one of its headliners.

Channels Television reported that the event was yet to commence when sounds of gunshots resonated within the premises, leaving people scampering for safety around 11pm. It was later gathered that the shots might have been fired by one of the policemen believed to be on duty.

An eyewitness said;

“The gunshots triggered a stampede which caused all of us to run out of the venue for safety. In the process of running, I saw two persons in the pool of their blood; a male and a female.

“The sound of gunshots made me run towards the gate in fear as I did not know what was happening.

“Several other people also took to their heels; although it was not easy for most people to identify the location of their vehicles.

“Several onlookers stood aloof at the rail crossing and at You Road and Ibadan street in utter surprise.”

Council Chairman of Otukpo Local Government, George Alli who confirmed the report disclosed that a young lady and young man died in the incident.

He alleged that the organizer of the music carnival flouted federal and state governments’ directive which bannned social gathering due to the second wave of COVID-19.

Alli said;

“Yes, is true there was an incident and two people died; a young lady and a young man died. Their corpses have been deposited in the hospital morgue.

“I have spoken to the Area Commander and the Division Police Officer and they are investigating the incident. The gathering in the first place is not proper because the federal government has directed that there should be no social gathering and it was followed by the State government. There should be compliance with the directives.”