Suspected armed herders on Sunday unleashed fresh violence in Benue State, killing at least 43 persons in separate attacks on communities in Gwer West and Apa Local Government Areas.
The coordinated assaults, which occurred around 7pm, targeted Tse Antswam near Naka town in Gwer West LGA, and Edikwu Ankpali in Apa LGA. The attacks are the latest in a string of violent incidents that have rocked Benue State, leaving residents in fear and deepening humanitarian concerns.
Eyewitnesses and local authorities confirmed the killings. In Gwer West, the Ter Nagi, Chief Daniel Abomtse, said the attackers stormed Tse Antswam in a guerrilla-style raid and began firing indiscriminately.
“As I am talking to you now, 18 corpses have been recovered,” the monarch told reporters on Monday morning. “Many villagers were butchered and some may not survive due to the severity of their injuries. People ran into the bush and even jumped into wells trying to escape.”
He described the incident as a tragedy that occurred just opposite a military checkpoint along the Naka–Makurdi Road.
In neighbouring Apa LGA, a local resident identified simply as Tony reported a similarly devastating toll. “Over 25 persons at Edikwu Ankpali were killed yesterday and the corpses will soon be buried,” he said.
Chairman of Gwer West LGA, Mr Victor Ormini, confirmed the attack, noting that it came just a week after another assault in the area claimed over 40 lives, including a mobile police officer.
“It is exactly a week today that I told you about the killings in Aondona and other communities,” Ormini said. “Instead of abating, it’s getting worse. This time, it’s Naka town. As of now, over 14 corpses have been recovered.”
Meanwhile, the chairman of Apa LGA, Mr Adams Ocheiga, also acknowledged the attack, stating he was en route to the affected community for an on-the-spot assessment. He pledged to provide details after the visit.
The Benue State Police Command confirmed the incidents but withheld casualty figures pending verification. Police spokesperson, DSP Udeme Edet, said tactical teams had been deployed to restore order and conduct investigations.
“This is to confirm that there was an attack yesterday at Naka and Apa,” Edet stated. “Tactical teams are on ground and are on top of the situation. I will get back to you after getting further and accurate information.”
Benue State, often referred to as Nigeria’s food basket, has witnessed persistent clashes between farming communities and armed herders in recent years. The violence has contributed to internal displacement and food insecurity, as many villagers are forced to abandon their farms for safety.
