Fresh violence has claimed the lives of at least 16 people in Benue State, after suspected armed herders launched separate attacks on communities in Otukpo and Kwande Local Government Areas, leaving several others injured and forcing residents to flee.
The latest assaults have renewed concerns over the worsening security situation in parts of the state, where attacks on farming communities continue despite the presence of security personnel.
14 Killed in Predawn Attack on Otukpo Community
The deadliest attack occurred in the early hours of Tuesday when suspected armed herders reportedly invaded Efeyi community in Ugboju District of Otukpo Local Government Area at about 4:00 a.m.
According to local sources, the attackers opened fire on residents, killing at least 14 people and leaving several others with gunshot wounds.
Residents said some community members remained missing as search efforts continued, raising fears that the death toll could increase.
A local source described the incident as devastating, alleging that security personnel had not reached the community hours after the attack despite the presence of military and police formations in nearby Ugboju Ogobia.
Council Chairman Confirms Casualties
Chairman of Otukpo Local Government Area, Maxwell Ogiri, confirmed the attack, saying 14 bodies had been recovered while injured victims were receiving medical treatment.
He condemned the killings, saying the victims were attacked without provocation.
According to Ogiri, the violence has created widespread fear, prompting residents of neighbouring communities to flee for safety.
He also expressed concern that repeated attacks have continued despite the deployment of military personnel, police officers, mobile police units, and agro-rangers in the area.
The council chairman urged authorities to strengthen the enforcement of Benue State’s anti-open grazing law, arguing that existing measures would have little impact without effective implementation.
Earlier Killing Reported in Otukpo
Residents also reported that before Tuesday’s attack, another farmer was allegedly killed on Monday while working on his farm in Ipom community, also located within the Ugboju District of Otukpo LGA.
Attack in Kwande Leaves Woman Dead
In a separate incident on Monday, suspected armed herders reportedly attacked Abaji community in Moon Council Ward of Kwande Local Government Area.
Witnesses said the attackers opened fire on farmers working on a Bambara nut farm.
A woman who sustained gunshot injuries reportedly died hours later, while the assailants allegedly stole two motorcycles belonging to farmers who fled the scene.
One survivor said the farmers noticed unusual movements before gunmen suddenly emerged and began shooting, forcing everyone to abandon their farming tools and run for safety.
Although residents have since returned to the community, many remain fearful of further attacks.
Police Yet to Respond
As of the time this report was filed, the Benue State Police Command had not issued an official statement on the incidents.
Efforts to obtain comments from the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Udeme Edet, were unsuccessful.
The latest attacks highlight the persistent insecurity affecting rural communities in Benue State, where farmers continue to face threats while carrying out their daily activities.
The incidents are also likely to intensify calls for stronger security measures and more effective enforcement of the state’s anti-open grazing law as communities seek protection from recurring violence….See More
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