Several Killed, Others Missing in Fresh Benue Attack
A fresh wave of violence has struck Benue State after armed attackers invaded Saai community in Mbajir Ward of Katsina-Ala Local Government Area, killing several residents while others remain missing.
Residents said the assailants stormed the community shortly after midnight, firing gunshots indiscriminately and forcing villagers to flee for safety.
Witnesses claimed that many victims were shot, while others were brutally attacked during the assault.
Although locals said at least 10 bodies had been recovered, authorities have released varying casualty figures.
Chairman of Katsina-Ala Local Government Area, Justine Shaku, confirmed six deaths, while the Benue State Police Command said five people were killed.
The latest attack comes days after the Chairman of the Benue State chapter of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), Alhaji Ardo Risku Muhammad, and his associate, Yakubu Isah, were ambushed and killed while returning from a police-mediated peace meeting between herders and farming communities in Ohimini Local Government Area.
Governor Hyacinth Alia condemned the attack, describing it as a cowardly act against innocent citizens.
He directed security agencies to reinforce security in the affected communities, track down those responsible and protect farmers as the planting season progresses.
In a separate incident, Rev. Dr. Samuel Gbinde of the Universal Reformed Christian Church (NKST) and two members of his congregation were reportedly taken from the pastor’s residence in Guma Local Government Area by armed men.
Confirming the incident, the church appealed to security agencies and the government to intensify efforts to secure the victims’ safe release and bring those responsible to justice.
Also reacting, Peoples Democratic Party governorship candidate for the 2027 Benue election, Michael Aondoakaa (SAN), and Senate Minority Leader, Senator Abba Moro, condemned the renewed violence and urged security agencies to act swiftly to end the attacks and prosecute the perpetrators.
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