Residents of Katsina-Ala and Logo local government areas in Benue State have been forced to flee their homes following a violent raid by gunmen that left at least 30 people dead and many others injured.
The attacks, which occurred on Sunday and the early hours of Monday, have plunged the affected communities into chaos.
Local sources confirmed that the attacks targeted multiple villages. Ten bodies were recovered from Katsina-Ala, while Logo recorded 20 deaths, bringing the total casualties to 30. Survivors report hiding in nearby bushes to escape the heavily armed assailants.
David, a resident of Mbatuyla Council Ward in Katsina-Ala, described the harrowing experience: “I am currently hiding in the bush with other villagers. Three people were killed in my village alone, and many have abandoned their homes.” Another resident, Francis, lamented ongoing killings, stating that “everyone is running for safety.”
Local leaders have decried the continued insecurity.
The Chairman of Katsina-Ala LGA, Justine Shaku, revealed that armed herders invaded Adabo village and Tse Gwebe settlement, killing six people and leaving the communities in disarray. “Farmlands have been destroyed, people injured, and properties lost. This invasion has set us back significantly,” Shaku said.
Similarly, the Chairman of Logo LGA, Clement Kav, confirmed an attack on Tombo Council Ward, which claimed 17 lives and injured 37. Kav alleged that the attackers were trying to claim ownership of the community.
A military jet was reportedly deployed to disperse the attackers, who were armed with sophisticated weapons.
Community leaders expressed frustration at the lack of adequate security to counter the attacks. Chief Joseph Anawah of Logo stated that over 300 attackers stormed Azege settlement, killing at least 20 people.
“The security operatives on the ground were overwhelmed until military reinforcement arrived,” Anawah added.
The Police Public Relations Officer for Benue State, Catherine Anene, confirmed the deployment of officers to Logo but provided a preliminary casualty figure of five. Anene emphasized that investigations are ongoing to identify the perpetrators.
Meanwhile, the state government has assured residents that its homeland security operatives are working to address the situation.
The Special Adviser to the Governor on Internal Security, Joseph Har, reiterated the government’s commitment to restoring peace. However, several officials, including the Director-General of Homeland Security, were unavailable for comments at the time of reporting.
As residents continue to flee the troubled areas, community leaders and officials are calling for increased military presence and immediate intervention to prevent further loss of lives and property.
