Suspected armed herdsmen attack Benue community, kill 11, injure several others

At least 11 people have been killed, and several others injured following an attack by suspected armed herdsmen on Mbagena community in Mchihe Council Ward, Katsina-Ala Local Government Area (LGA) of Benue State.

Local sources report that the assailants also set houses ablaze and looted food barns, leaving the community in turmoil. A resident revealed that the attackers initially struck on Friday night and returned on Saturday around 7 p.m. in greater numbers, wreaking havoc.

“They came back, shooting and killing anyone in sight. They also burnt homes and destroyed farm produce stored in food barns,” a local source recounted.

As of Sunday morning, 11 bodies had been recovered, while many others remain missing. Injured victims have been transported to hospitals in Katsina-Ala Town for urgent medical attention.

Confirming the attack, the Chairman of Katsina-Ala LGA, Mr. Justin Shaku, described it as an unprovoked act of violence.

“The killings occurred between 7 p.m. and 9 p.m. on Saturday. About 11 people lost their lives, while seven others with serious injuries are receiving treatment in undisclosed hospitals,” he stated.

He further disclosed that he visited the scene alongside a House of Representatives member representing the Sankera axis, assisting in burial arrangements and providing aid to affected families.

The President General of Mzough U Tiv (MUT) Worldwide, Chief Iorbee Ihagh, strongly condemned the attack and urged the government to deploy more security personnel to the affected area to prevent further bloodshed.

Reacting to the incident, Governor Hyacinth Alia, through his Chief Press Secretary, Tersoo Kula, expressed deep condolences to the bereaved families and denounced the destruction of lives and property.

“This level of cruelty is deeply offensive and will not be tolerated,” the Governor stated.

He assured the public that security forces had been deployed to restore order and track down the perpetrators.

“We are working closely with local law enforcement and community leaders to ensure our people can live peacefully, free from fear and violence,” he added.

Governor Alia urged Benue residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities, emphasizing his administration’s commitment to security.

As of press time, efforts to reach the Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Catherine Anene, for an official statement were unsuccessful.