BREAKING: Suspected Armed Herdsmen Kill 8, Injure 15 In Fresh Benue Attack

No fewer than eight residents of Saai community in Mbajir Ward, Katsina-Ala Local Government Area of Benue State, were killed in the early hours of Tuesday in an attack by suspected armed herdsmen, while at least 15 others sustained injuries.

A security source told LEADERSHIP that the attackers invaded the community in the early hours of July 1, killing eight people and leaving several others critically wounded.

“The survivors of the attack called and told us that eight people were killed by suspected armed herdsmen. About fifteen were injured and were taken to hospital for medical attention,” the source said.

The injured victims were reportedly evacuated to hospitals for emergency treatment.

A government official, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said there had been heightened security concerns following the killing of the Benue State chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), Ardo Rabo Mohammed, and one Yakubu Isa.

According to the official, the two men were killed by unidentified criminals last week after attending a security meeting along the Okwudu-Ogoli Road in Otukpo Local Government Area.

Meanwhile, Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, condemned the latest attack, describing it as a senseless assault on innocent residents.

In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Tersoo Kula, the governor said he received reports of the attack with a heavy heart.

Alia confirmed that the incident occurred in the early hours of July 1 and said it left scores dead and many others with varying degrees of injuries. He alleged that the attack was carried out by “terrorists masquerading as herdsmen.”

“This attack is an ugly, cowardly and unacceptable act of violence, particularly coming at a crucial time when our hardworking farmers who have returned to their ancestral lands are cultivating their farms.

“These enemies of progress have chosen to disrupt the peace and food security of our state by targeting the moment when crops are developing and the hope for a bountiful harvest is high,” he said.

The governor extended his condolences to the bereaved families and wished the injured a speedy recovery.

“My heart goes out to those who lost their loved ones as well as other victims currently receiving medical attention; we pray for their swift and total recovery. I stand in solidarity with the entire Saai community during this period of immense grief,” he said.

Alia assured residents that his administration remained committed to protecting lives and property.

“I urge the people of Katsina-Ala and Benue State in general not to be discouraged because this administration remains unwavering in its commitment to protecting your lives and your livelihoods.

“We will not allow the forces of darkness to drive you away from your lands or dampen your spirits. We are building a Benue where peace and justice prevail, and this setback will only strengthen our resolve.”

The governor directed security agencies to immediately reinforce security in the affected area and track down those responsible for the attack.

He ordered them to deploy additional personnel to Saai and surrounding communities to prevent further attacks, launch a manhunt for the perpetrators, and ensure the safety of farmers returning to their farmlands.

“Ensure the safety of farmers as they tend to their crops, guaranteeing that no further disruption to agricultural activities occurs,” the statement quoted the governor as directing.

Alia also appealed to residents to remain calm but vigilant and report any suspicious movements to the nearest security formation.

“We will not rest until peace is fully restored to every corner of our dear state,” he added.

Efforts to obtain an official reaction from the Benue State Police Command were unsuccessful, as the command’s spokesperson, DSP Udeme Edet, did not respond to telephone calls.