At least three people have been killed in separate attacks by suspected armed herdsmen in Anyiase community of Moon Council Ward in Kwande Local Government Area of Benue State. The incident occurred between Thursday and Friday morning, July 3, 2026, barely 24 hours after an attack on another rural community in Okpokwu Local Government Area.
Attack on Farmers
Supervisory Councillor in the local government, Akerigba Lawrence, confirmed that the attackers invaded farms at Anyiase in Moon Council Ward at about 3:20 pm on Thursday, killing two farmers identified as Asongo Nagwebe and Tarzan Agbahegh. Lawrence stated that a man and a woman also sustained serious injuries during the attack and were rushed to Jato-Aka General Hospital for treatment. The male victim later died while being referred to Makurdi for further medical attention, bringing the death toll to three.
Road Attack on Commercial Bus
Lawrence further alleged that the suspected attackers blocked the road at Kyoawen Junction on Friday morning and opened fire on a commercial bus conveying passengers. The number of casualties from the latest road attack could not be immediately ascertained as of the time of filing this report.
Context of Insecurity
This attack comes just a day after another rural community in Okpokwu LGA was targeted, highlighting the ongoing security challenges in Benue State. The region has faced repeated violence attributed to clashes between farmers and herders, leading to loss of lives and displacement. Local authorities continue to call for increased security measures to protect communities.
