Deadly Attacks in Logo and Ukum LGAs
Armed herders have killed 15 people in four communities in Benue State, just days after the murder of the chairman of Macban community. The attacks took place on Tuesday in the Logo and Ukum local government areas, according to local sources.
The affected communities include Yelwata and Agan in Logo LGA, and Tse-Agberagba and Tyom-Ati in Ukum LGA. Residents reported that the herders, armed with AK-47 rifles, stormed the villages in the early hours of Tuesday, shooting indiscriminately and setting houses ablaze.
Eyewitness Accounts
A resident of Yelwata, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the attackers came in large numbers and opened fire on sleeping villagers. "We lost seven people in Yelwata alone. Many others are missing," the source said. In Tse-Agberagba, four people were killed, while three died in Agan and one in Tyom-Ati.
The attacks come less than a week after the gruesome murder of the chairman of Macban community, Mr. Terhemen Gbasha, who was killed by suspected herders on October 20. Gbasha was abducted from his farm and later found dead with multiple machete wounds.
Security Forces Deployed
The Benue State Police Command confirmed the attacks. Police spokesperson Catherine Anene said security operatives have been deployed to the affected areas to restore order and prevent further violence. "We are aware of the incidents and have sent tactical teams to the scene. Investigations are ongoing," Anene stated.
Benue State Governor Samuel Ortom condemned the attacks, describing them as "barbaric and unacceptable." He called on the Federal Government to take decisive action against armed herders who continue to terrorize communities in the state. Ortom reiterated his administration's commitment to protecting lives and property.
Rising Tensions in Benue
Benue State has been a hotspot for farmer-herder conflicts, with thousands killed in recent years. The state government has enacted the Open Grazing Prohibition and Ranches Establishment Law, but enforcement remains weak. The latest attacks have heightened fears among residents, with many calling for increased security presence.
According to the Benue State Emergency Management Agency, over 500 people have been killed in similar attacks in 2023 alone. The agency's spokesperson, James Iorpuu, said the attacks have displaced thousands of families, many of whom are now living in makeshift camps.
Community Leaders React
Community leaders in the affected areas have appealed to the government for assistance. The Chairman of Logo LGA, Mr. Richard Nyajo, described the attacks as "a calculated attempt to depopulate the area." He urged security agencies to intensify patrols and apprehend the perpetrators.
Meanwhile, the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) has denied any involvement in the attacks. Its Benue State chairman, Mr. Umar Garba, said the herders were also victims of attacks and called for peaceful coexistence.
As of press time, no arrests have been made, and the search for the attackers continues.
