At least seven people have been killed in a fresh attack by suspected armed herders in Benue State, deepening fears among residents as violence continues to spread across parts of the state.
The attack happened late Sunday night at Channel One community, a border settlement in Ukemberagya/Tswarev Council Ward of Logo Local Government Area. The community lies along the busy Arufu-Wukari road, which links Benue to neighbouring Taraba State.
According to a security source, the attackers stormed the area at about 11 p.m., shooting repeatedly and causing panic among residents. Many villagers were forced to flee into nearby bushes and neighbouring communities to escape the gunfire.
The source confirmed that six victims were identified as Akor Gwakyaa, Msooter Gwakyaa, Aondoungwa Michael, Vershima Michael, Terna Michael and Msughter Terzungwe. Another person was also reported killed, bringing the total number of deaths to seven.
Several others sustained serious injuries during the attack. Some of the wounded were taken to hospitals in Anyiin town, while about seven people in critical condition were moved to Ugba town for further treatment.
“The attackers came in large numbers and were heavily armed,” the source said. “They were riding motorcycles and shooting in different directions, making it difficult for residents to escape safely.”
It was also alleged that the attackers may have come from Shaor, a deserted village in Logo Local Government Area. Security reports in the past have identified Shaor as a possible camp used by suspected armed herders.
Following the attack, many residents of Channel One and nearby communities have abandoned their homes out of fear of further violence. Some families have moved to safer areas, while others are staying with relatives in neighbouring villages.
A community leader who spoke on the incident called on both the state and federal governments to take urgent action. He urged security agencies to carry out coordinated operations to clear out suspected criminal camps in Shaor and other deserted settlements.
He also stressed the need for stronger cooperation among states in the region. According to him, joint security efforts involving Benue, Nasarawa and Taraba states would help monitor movements across borders and prevent attackers from using remote routes to strike communities.
Residents say the latest incident is part of a worrying trend of increasing attacks in the state. In recent days, several communities in Benue have experienced similar violence, leading to loss of lives and displacement of people.
Last Thursday, gunmen attacked Olegabulu community in Agatu Local Government Area. During that incident, a traditional ruler, his wife, his son and two other people were killed.
In another attack on Saturday night, armed men suspected to be local militias killed three mourners and kidnapped two others. The victims were returning from a burial ceremony in Sati Ikov Council Ward of Ushongo Local Government Area when they were ambushed.
These repeated attacks have raised concerns about the security situation in Benue State, especially in rural and border communities where residents often have limited protection.
Benue has long faced clashes linked to disputes between farmers and herders, as well as activities of armed groups and bandits. These conflicts have led to many deaths over the years and forced thousands of people to leave their homes.
Despite efforts by security agencies, many communities continue to complain about slow response times and lack of enough personnel to cover large rural areas.
For many people in affected communities, the attacks have created a sense of fear and uncertainty. Farmers are afraid to go to their fields, while families worry about their safety at night.
As the situation continues, observers say urgent steps are needed to restore peace and protect lives. Without quick and effective action, there are fears that the violence could spread further and worsen the humanitarian situation in the state.