Again, suspected Herdsmen storm Benue, kill 17 in coordinated attacks

At least 17 people have been confirmed dead and several others injured after suspected armed herders launched coordinated attacks in Ukum and Logo Local Government Areas of Benue State. 

The tragic incident was confirmed in a statement issued on Friday by the Police Public Relations Officer of the Benue State Command, SP Sewuese Anene, and shared with journalists in Makurdi.

Anene explained that five lives were lost in Ukum while 12 others were killed in Logo, adding that several victims who sustained injuries were currently receiving treatment in hospitals.

“On 17/4/2025 at about 2100hrs, information was received that a large number of suspected militia had invaded Sankera axis of Benue State with intention to attack communities around Gbagir, Ukum Local Government Area.

“Upon receipt of this report, the Commissioner of Police, Benue State Police Command, CP Steve Yabanet, ordered tactical teams to move to the area and join forces with police officers on ground and other security agencies to forestall the attack.

“Following this order, a team of officers moved to the area and engaged them. While the attackers were being repelled in the early hours of today, they shot sporadically at unsuspecting farmers as they came across them.

“Five persons were recovered at Gbagir area and taken to the hospital where they were confirmed dead.

“Unfortunately an unsuspected simultaneous attack was carried out in Logo where 12 persons were killed before the arrival of the police, making a total of 17 persons.

“However, security agencies within Sankera axis are still engaging the bandits as they retreat back to the forest around Taraba axis,” she stated.

SP Anene also warned social media users against spreading unverified reports, saying such actions could create panic and worsen the situation.

She assured that the Police Command under CP Yabanet was committed to restoring peace in the affected communities and called on residents of the Sankera region to continue supporting security efforts.