A personnel of the Nigeria Forest Security Service (NFSS), Lawrence Cletus, 39, has lost his life after suspected herdsmen allegedly invaded a farm in Ome community, Jenkwe Development Area, Obi Local Government Area of Nasarawa State.
The incident occurred at about 5:30 p.m. on Sunday, October 18, 2026, on a farm close to the riverbank.
It was gathered that the deceased was attacked after security personnel reportedly moved to arrest Fulani herders accused of invading farmland in the area.
An eyewitness said Cletus was allegedly pursued, unalived and drowned in the river, while community members later recovered his body.
A eyewitness, who requested anonymity, recounted how the attack unfolded.
“I saw herdsmen rushing after him to unalive him, and I even shouted at the deceased to run for his life when I saw them chasing him,” she said.
Habib Isa, a Divisional Command Officer (DCO) deployed to the community, confirmed on Tueaday that the incident had been reported to the divisional police station.
He added that investigation had commenced to identify and apprehend those responsible.
He appealed to residents to remain calm and continue their normal farming activities, assuring them that the situation would be brought under control.
The traditional ruler of Ome community, Mr. Luka Zhemuga, also condemned the killing, describing it as sad and unacceptable.
Zhemuga urged residents to remain law-abiding, noting that the appropriate authorities had been informed and investigations were underway to bring the perpetrators to justice and deter similar incidents.
Cletus reportedly left behind two wives and five children.
