Benue Lawmaker Counters Police, Says Herders Killed Over 10 In Ukum Attacks

The member representing Ukum State Constituency in the Benue State House of Assembly, Ezra Nyiyongo, has disclosed that suspected armed herders who invaded some communities in Ukum Local Government Area killed over 10 people.

The police had earlier confirmed that three people were killed in the attack.

However, Nyiyongo, who disclosed this on his Facebook page after visiting survivors of Sunday’s attacks at St. Anthony Hospital, Zaki-Biam, said armed herders believed to have come from neighbouring Taraba State attacked several communities in Mbatsavazun, Mbaterem, Ukum Local Government Area, in the early hours of Sunday.

He said the affected communities included Ayaba, Tse Kaave, Tse Yawe, Bon, Ikpuu, Tse Yiaga and others.

According to Nyiyongo, “Today, I visited survivors of last night’s horrific attack on the people of Mbatsavazun, who are currently receiving treatment at St. Anthony Hospital, Zaki-Biam.

“The unprovoked attacks have tragically claimed the lives of over 10 people, with several others sustaining serious injuries and currently receiving medical attention.”

He added, “Recall that I recently moved a Motion of Urgent Public Importance on the floor of the Benue State House of Assembly, calling for urgent and decisive action to curb the worsening insecurity in Ukum Local Government Area.

“I remain optimistic that the circumstances surrounding this heinous attack will be thoroughly investigated, the perpetrators identified and apprehended, and justice served.”

Meanwhile, the casualty figure given by the lawmaker contradicts that of the Benue State Police Command, whose spokesperson, DSP Orchia Peter Aondongu, said three people were killed.

The police statement said, “Three persons were killed in the attack, while four others sustained machete injuries and were rescued to a medical facility for treatment.”