In the latest wave of violence to hit Benue State, a resident of Yelewata community in Guma Local Government Area of the State, Michael Ajah, has shared the devastating account of how he lost 20 members of his extended family during a late-night attack allegedly carried out by armed herdsmen.
The assault, which occurred two nights ago, came amid a heavy downpour that had forced many residents indoors. Ajah, recounting the events in an emotional interview with News Central TV, described the coordinated nature of the attack and the utter destruction it left in its wake.
“On that very day, rain started in the evening. I was sleeping. Around 10:20, we heard gunshots,” he said. “Before we could notice that something was happening, Fulani men entered this place.”
According to Ajah, the attackers opened fire without warning, killing his family members where they sought refuge. 11 people were killed inside his house, eight more in a nearby store, and others in the surrounding area. “My whole family members that died that day, the day before yesterday, they were 20. That is my own family members alone,” he said.
Beyond the tragic loss of life, Ajah said the attackers razed his home and store, destroying everything he owned. “They burnt my clothes, everything. All we are left with is the clothes we wear,” he lamented.
The Yelewata massacre formed part of a broader tragedy. Reports indicated that more than 200 people have been killed in similar attacks across Benue State in the past week, sparking outrage across the country and renewed calls for decisive government intervention.
Security analysts have long warned of the growing threat posed by armed groups operating in Nigeria’s Middle Belt region. Yet, despite numerous promises, communities like Yelewata remain deeply vulnerable.
Citizens, lawmakers, and civil society organizations are now calling on President Bola Tinubu’s administration to take immediate and effective action to halt the bloodshed and ensure justice for the victims.
On Monday, the inspector general of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun, arrived Benue with a tactical team to find a solution to the problem.
For Ajah and many others who survived the carnage, the scars go beyond physical destruction. “My family died in this house,” he said, pointing to the ashes of what was once his home. “Everyone is gone.”
