Fresh attacks by suspected armed herdsmen have claimed the lives of at least 10 people in Otukpo Local Government Area of Benue State, deepening fears over the worsening security situation in the region.
The violence began on Saturday when gunmen reportedly stormed Akpachi village in the Ugboju community, killing two residents and leaving several others injured. Survivors said the attackers fled after the assault, while victims were rushed to nearby health facilities for treatment.
Barely 24 hours later, the assailants struck again. In the early hours of Sunday, they allegedly invaded Otukpo Nobi community, where eight more people were killed. Several others sustained injuries during the attack, although the exact number of casualties is yet to be officially confirmed.
The latest killings sparked outrage among residents, with angry youths taking to the streets in protest. The demonstrators marched to the Och’Idoma Palace in Otukpo, calling on both the Benue State Government and security agencies to take decisive action to halt the recurring attacks and restore peace to the area.
The renewed violence comes amid growing concerns over insecurity across Benue, a state that has witnessed repeated clashes and deadly attacks in recent months. Residents say the persistent assaults have forced many communities to live in fear while disrupting normal economic and social activities.
The incident also follows the killing of the Benue State Chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), Alhaji Ardo Risku Mohammed, and his associate, Yakubu Isah, who were attacked around Okwudu in Otukpo Local Government Area after attending a peace meeting in Ohimini LGA about a month ago.
Authorities are yet to issue an official statement on the latest attacks as security operatives continue efforts to assess the situation. More details are expected as investigations progress.
