Benue State has been plagued by recurring violent attacks, kidnappings, and killings, often attributed to armed herdsmen, leaving residents in a state of fear and insecurity.
No fewer than 5 residents of Udeku Maav-Ya community in Mbakyol Council Ward, Turan district of Kwande Local Government Area, Benue State, have been killed in a violent attack by suspected herdsmen.
The assault occurred on Tuesday evening as locals were still harvesting yams and bambara nuts from their farms. According to residents, the attack disrupted daily activities and left the community on edge.
A local resident, who identified himself simply as Terna, described the incident as “another tragic blow to our community,” noting that the assailants did not retreat immediately after the attack, escalating fear in the area.
Confirming the attack, Kwande Local Government Chairman Tersua Yarkwan described the area as a vulnerable border zone adjoining Cameroon, lamenting that the challenging terrain hinders effective security operations. He warned that recurring attacks during harvest season threaten local food security.
Former supervisory councillor Akerigba Lawrence also confirmed the killings and condemned the sustained assaults on the community. He said residents regularly face attacks that destroy crops, homes, economic trees, and restrict access to water sources.
Lawrence identified some of the victims as Tyozua Gyuse, Gbaga Gyuse, and Tersuur Ijighka, while the names of two others remain unknown. He added that search operations are ongoing for residents reported missing.
He further revealed that schools, churches, and markets in the community have been forced to close due to repeated attacks, leaving residents vulnerable and anxious.
Attempts to reach the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Udeme Edet, for comments were unsuccessful at the time of reporting.
The latest incident has reignited concerns over the seasonal influx of armed herders in Benue State, particularly during the dry season, heightening fears over security and livelihoods in border communities.
