Suspected armed herders yesterday unleashed fresh attacks on two communities in Benue State, leaving at least 43 people dead in Gwer West and Apa Local Government Areas.
The violence erupted barely a week after similar attacks in the region. According to reports, the assailants invaded Tse Antswam near Naka town around 7pm, shooting indiscriminately and causing multiple fatalities.
Local sources revealed that Edikwu Ankpali community in Apa LGA was also attacked at the same time. A resident, Tony, confirmed over 25 people were killed there.
Ter Nagi, Daniel Abomtse, confirmed the attack in Gwer West, saying, “As of this morning (Monday), 18 corpses have been recovered while several others sustained injuries. Many villagers fled into the bush or jumped into wells to escape.”
Chairman of Gwer West LGA, Victor Ormini, described the incident as devastating, noting that it occurred exactly a week after similar violence claimed over 40 lives in the area. “As of now, over 14 corpses have been recovered,” he said.
Meanwhile, Adams Ocheiga, chairman of Apa LGA, confirmed the killings and stated that he was heading to the community for an on-the-spot assessment.
Police spokesperson, DSP Udeme Edet, acknowledged the attacks, stating that tactical teams had been deployed and were “on top of the situation,” although casualty figures were yet to be confirmed.
