Three people have been killed and two others seriously injured in a fresh attack by suspected herdsmen in Benue State. The attack happened in Mtsewnem, Akondutyough village, located in the North Bank area of Makurdi, the state capital.
The tragic incident occurred during the Democracy Day celebration on June 12, casting a dark shadow over the national holiday.
Hon. Alfred Berger, the lawmaker representing Makurdi North in the Benue State House of Assembly, confirmed the attack. He told reporters that the victims were attacked while in their homes, and that the two injured persons are currently receiving treatment in the hospital.
“Last night, suspected herdsmen attacked Mtsewnem, Akondutyough village… leaving three persons dead and two others critically injured,” Berger said.
Attempts to get a response from the Benue State Police Command have not been successful. The police spokesperson, SP Udeme Edet, is yet to reply to messages from journalists.
Benue has been a hotspot for repeated attacks over the last decade, with hundreds killed and thousands displaced in ongoing violence involving suspected armed herders, militias, and other criminal groups.
Just last week, Nigeria’s Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, visited Governor Hyacinth Alia to address the worsening insecurity. The governor said the Army Chief had ordered the deployment of more troops and would be holding meetings with military commanders to tackle the crisis.
“He will also visit affected communities, boost troop morale, and lead from the front lines,” Governor Alia said. “Our people deserve protection, justice, and peace.”
Despite these efforts, the killings continue, leaving residents fearful and calling for urgent and lasting solutions.
