Panic is spreading across Benue communities after more than 100 cattle mysteriously died while crossing River Benue into Nasarawa State, raising fears of impending attacks linked to armed Fulani herdsmen reportedly retreating from recent confrontations.
The incident, which occurred on Saturday, June 14, 2025, left residents of Achepe and surrounding villages in shock after dead cattle were seen floating in large numbers along the river. Eyewitnesses say the animals either drowned or were buried alive by collapsing soil as they attempted to climb riverbanks weakened by erosion.
Mr. Olikita Ekani, a farmer from the area, told OtownGist he witnessed the grim scene while returning from his farmland. “I saw dead cows floating near Achepe. The herdsmen have been rushing back to Nasarawa for days. Anytime this happens, it usually means an attack just happened or is about to happen,” he warned.
Local fishermen confirmed the mass exodus of herders from Benue into Nasarawa over the past week, noting that Saturday alone claimed at least 64 cattle lives. One fisherman, who requested anonymity, described how large chunks of soil collapsed onto animals as they neared riverbanks, while others panicked and drowned during the chaotic crossing.
Identified crossing points include Abugbe to Odenyi, Ocholonya to Akpekpo, Achukpa to Ijiwo, and Oleg’Ada’Gomowe to Achepe—areas historically known as infiltration routes for herders during seasonal migrations or after violent clashes. The sudden movement of herdsmen in these numbers has left many villagers on high alert.
Tensions have recently flared in Benue following reported reprisal attacks and fresh security deployments. Community leaders in Guma and Makurdi LGAs say the fleeing herders may be part of armed groups previously involved in raids on farming settlements. “They don’t just cross like this for fun—it’s either an escape or regrouping,” a local vigilante member noted.
Attempts to reach the Benue State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Udeme Edet, for official confirmation were unsuccessful at the time of filing this report. However, security operatives have reportedly been alerted to monitor the riverine corridor between Benue and Nasarawa for signs of renewed threats.
