No fewer than 61 people have been confirmed dead following a weekend of violence in Benue State, marked by deadly herdsmen attacks and a communal conflict that also saw over 200 houses destroyed.
The attacks took place across three local government areas—Apa, Gwer West, and Gwer East—leaving entire communities in shock and mourning.
In Apa and Gwer West LGAs, suspected armed herdsmen launched coordinated assaults on multiple villages, killing at least 46 people, including women and children. One of the worst-hit areas was Edikwu Ankpali community in Apa LGA, where residents say the attack came in waves.
“After the first attack in Ijaha Ibele Ochekwu, we thought it was over,” said a local resident. “But by evening, they returned heavily armed and opened fire on people fleeing for their lives.”
Witnesses report that at least 28 bodies have so far been recovered from Edikwu Ankpali, while several injured victims are receiving treatment in local hospitals.
In Gwer West, the community of Tse Antswam in Naka was invaded around 7 p.m. on Sunday. Gunmen shot at residents indiscriminately for nearly two hours. Eighteen people were killed and many others injured or missing.
Chief Daniel Abomtse, Chairman of the Gwer West Traditional Council, confirmed the incident and expressed concern that the attack occurred close to a military checkpoint on the Naka-Makurdi road.
“This shows a serious security lapse. Some victims were so badly butchered that survival is uncertain. Many ran into the bush or jumped into wells to escape,” he said.
Meanwhile, in Gwer East LGA, a communal clash between the Mbakine and Ojumole communities turned bloody. What began as a disagreement between two youths in a local market on Friday escalated into full-blown violence by Saturday.
At least 15 people were killed and over 200 houses burnt in Ojumole. The conflict involved Igede and Tiv communities, who had reportedly lived in peace for more than a century.
Igede youth leader Andyson Egbodo described the incident as tragic and called for urgent reconciliation. “This violence is heartbreaking. Communities that have coexisted peacefully for generations are now in ruins.”
Benue State Police spokesperson, DSP Udeme Edet, confirmed the attacks and said tactical teams had been deployed to restore calm. “We are on top of the situation and will provide updates as we get more accurate details,” he said.
Efforts are underway to convene peace meetings and support affected residents.
