A young Igala graduate, identified as John Johnson, has been brutally murdered and dismembered in what is believed to be an attack by suspected herdsmen.
The tragic incident occurred in Zaina, near Angwar Hakimi, Orozo, within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) of Abuja, leaving his family and community in deep mourning.
Reports indicate that Johnson met his untimely death on March 29, 2025, while attending a Boys’ Brigade camp in the area. Sources say he had already endured immense hardship, having lost his father to a prolonged illness just the previous year.
The Chief of Igala in Orozo, Amadu Zachariah, confirmed the attack and lamented the failure of security forces to apprehend the perpetrators. He revealed that the Boys’ Brigade had initially set up camp in Zaina, but due to an impending rainstorm, the group decided to relocate to a nearby church for shelter.
According to Zachariah, two group leaders later returned to the original campsite to retrieve their belongings. It was during this moment that suspected herdsmen ambushed them. One leader managed to escape, but tragically, Johnson was caught and killed.
Eyewitness Account of the Attack
Recounting the harrowing event, Zachariah explained:
“Unfortunately, that night, the weather took a turn for the worse, and they had to move the children to a nearby church for safety. After ensuring the children were settled, two of the group’s leaders went back to retrieve their belongings.
“On their way, they were ambushed by individuals suspected to be Fulani herdsmen. One of them managed to escape, but John Johnson was not so lucky. He was attacked, and by the time the villagers arrived in response to the survivor’s alert, Johnson had already been killed.”
Police Investigation and Community Reaction
Local authorities were promptly informed, and a police investigation commenced. Upon arrival, law enforcement discovered that Fulani herdsmen residing in the area had fled, raising suspicions about their involvement.
“The police were notified, and upon reaching the scene, they found that the Fulani herdsmen who had been living around the area had packed up and disappeared,” Zachariah stated. “The leaders of the Fulani community have assured the police that they will assist in identifying the culprits, but as of now, no arrests have been made.”
This lack of immediate justice has left the community frustrated, with residents calling for swift action from security agencies to ensure the perpetrators are brought to book.
Tributes and Calls for Justice
The senseless murder of John Johnson has sent shockwaves through his family, friends, and the entire Orozo community. The Fortress Ministry in Abuja, where Johnson was an active member, officially announced his passing, describing his death as a martyrdom for his unwavering faith.
In a statement released to the press, Rev. Samuel Ikani, the head of Fortress Ministry, expressed sorrow over the incident:
“With deep sorrow but unwavering faith in Jesus Christ, Fortress Ministry Abuja announces the homegoing of our beloved brother, Bro. Johnson Enyo-Ojo John, who transitioned to glory on March 29, 2025.
“Bro. Johnson was martyred while standing firm in his commitment to the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ. He lived a life of devotion, service, and unwavering love for God, inspiring us with his courage and dedication.
“While our hearts grieve his departure, we take comfort in the words of Scripture: ‘Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His saints.’ – Psalm 116:15.
We ask that the Fortress Family across the world join us in praying for his mother and siblings, that they may find strength, peace, and divine comfort during this difficult time.”
Police Response and Ongoing Investigation
Despite attempts to reach the spokesperson for the FCT Police Command, SP Josephine Adeh, for a statement, there has been no official response to calls and messages seeking clarification on the investigation’s progress.
Meanwhile, concerned citizens and advocacy groups have called on the authorities to intensify their efforts in apprehending the assailants. Community leaders emphasize the need for improved security measures in the region to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
A Plea for Action
John Johnson’s murder underscores the growing insecurity in parts of Nigeria, where reports of attacks by suspected herdsmen have become increasingly frequent. His family and community are now pleading for justice, urging the government and security agencies to act decisively to ensure that such incidents do not continue unabated.
As the nation mourns yet another victim of violent attacks, the call for better protection of citizens remains louder than ever.
