Suspected armed herders attacked some communities in Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State early on Sunday. At least five people were killed in this latest attack.
A local resident spoke with our correspondent over the phone on Sunday. He said the attackers first hit Myina village and then moved on to other villages like Ikpur, Ayaba, Ajio, and more in Mbazum Council Ward.
The local, who gave his name as John Agber, said, “In the early hours of today (Sunday), some suspected Fulani marauders attacked several villages and communities in Mbazum Council Ward, Ukum LGA of Benue State.
“The attackers began the assault in Myina village and proceeded to attack other villages, including Ikpur, Ayaba, Ajio, and other villages in Mbazum Council Ward,” he added. “Five bodies have been recovered.”
Agber mentioned that they could not yet determine the full extent of the destruction at the time of this report. He noted that the attack was still ongoing in some remote areas. Security forces have been sent to the affected villages.
When we reached out for comments, the state police spokesperson, DSP Peter Aondongu, confirmed the incident. He promised to provide more details later.
He stated, “I can confirm that there was an attack in Ukum Local Government Area; more details will be communicated to you as soon as I have them.”
Meanwhile, Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, has condemned the Sunday attack on the communities in Ukum LGA. In a statement from his Chief Press Secretary, Kula Tersoo, the governor praised the quick response from security agencies. He assured continued support for them to effectively protect the people.
The statement included, “Terrorists masquerading as herdsmen in the early hours of today invaded and attacked the people of Mbaterem in Ayaba, Ikpur, Yina, Aboajio, and Ukpen communities of Mbazun Ward, killing some and inflicting injuries on others.
“The governor consoles those who lost loved ones and the injured, vowing to keep giving the necessary support to security agencies to effectively protect the state.”
Governor Alia warned that the people of the state would not give up their homes to any invaders. He said, “Benue lands for Benue people. Anyone who thinks that attacking us will intimidate us to leave the land is making a mistake.”
“I took an oath to protect our people, and I will not relent. I must appreciate the fact that the Federal Government is advancing a lot of support for us to tackle these acts of terrorism.”
The governor urged security agencies to maintain presence in key areas across the state to deal with those attacking the communities. He also reassured the citizens of his administration’s ongoing efforts to keep them safe.
Recently, communities in Otukpo, Ohimini, Logo, and now Ukum LGAs have faced repeated attacks by armed herders.
Drop your comment
No comments yet — be the first to drop the gist 👇