Again, herdsmen invade 2 Benue communities, killing 25

From Attah Ede, Makurdi 

Armed men, suspected to be herdsmen militia have, again, attacked two communities of Mtswenem and Akondotyough Bawa in North Bank area of  Makurdi, the Benue State capital, killing  no fewer than 25 persons.

The herders equally attacked  three communities in Katsina- Ala  Local Government Area of the state killing one person and leaving several others with deep machete cuts 

Our correspondent gathered that the attackers struck  North Bank around 12 am on Thursday and Friday, operating for till 2 am unchallenged. 

Sources who spoke on condition of anonymity told journalists that  the marauders operated for two hours with sophisticated weapons, including guns and machetes.

They said the assailants broke into people’s homes, forcefully breaking doors and windows, and butchered their victims.

They said the attackers came unprovoked, killing many people, including women and children. “Some residents managed to escape, while others fled for safety, with some still missing as we speak.

“The death toll stands at 25, with some injured victims dying on their way to the hospital.

“The attack has left a sense of dread and uncertainty among the people. Residents of the affected and neighboring communities are now living in fear, unsure of who the next victims will be.

Our correspondent also gathered that suspected herdsmen militia attacked villages in Katsina Ala LGA killing a yet to be disclosed number of people and destroying properties.

A source from the area said the herders stormed Kenvanger and Agbami villages, both located in Mbatyula Council Ward of Katsina Ala Local Government Area, at the wee hours of Thursday night.

“They stormed the villages around  1pm, forcefully gaining access to the homes of villagers while they were asleep.

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The marauding group allegedly attempted to rape some of the nursing women, who raised alarm, prompting some men to rush to their aid. “In the ensuing chaos, the militia opened fire, killing one person and leaving others with severe injuries. 

“The victims managed to escape, but the incident has left the community traumatized.

“A similar attack was also reported in Agbami village, where the suspected herdsmen militia matched people but fortunately, no deaths were recorded.

“The incidents have sparked fear and anxiety among residents, who are demanding increased security measures to protect their lives and property.”

The Benue State Police Command has confirmed the North Bank attacks. The Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Udeme Edet, said “The police are on ground there and still gathering information. Be patient, we will make the figure available as soon as we get the complete information.”