Police Officer, 8 Others Killed in Renewed Herdsmen Attacks on Benue Communities

At least nine people, including a police officer, have been killed in a renewed wave of attacks by suspected armed herders in Agatu Local Government Area of Benue State.

According to local sources, the attacks believed to have been launched from neighbouring Kogi State spanned several days, affecting communities such as Okwutanobe, Okpokpolo, Olegagbani, and Ikpele.

A resident, speaking on condition of anonymity, detailed the timeline of the incidents:

• Friday: Two people were killed in Okwutanobe.
• Saturday: One person was killed in Okpokpolo.
• Monday: Another death was reported in Olegagbani.
• Tuesday: A police officer and four civilians were killed in Ikpele.

“People are fleeing their homes out of fear. No one knows which community could be targeted next,” the resident added.

Chairman of Agatu LGA, James Melvin, confirmed the fatalities, stating that the attacks, which lasted three days, left a total of nine people dead, including a police officer. He suggested the violence may be retaliatory, possibly linked to allegations that herders’ cattle were rustled by unknown criminals.

Meanwhile, tensions are also rising in Oju and Obi LGAs, home to the Igede-speaking population, following the killing of two middle-aged men Jonathan Ogah and Gabriel Ogodo by suspected Tiv youths in Ulam, a community in Gwer East LGA. The victims were reportedly ambushed and killed while traveling by motorcycle along the Oju-Awajir road on Monday. One of them was said to be recently married.

The incident has escalated tensions between Igede and Tiv communities, particularly affecting students and commuters who have abandoned the busy Oju-Aliade Road due to fears of reprisal attacks. The long-standing land dispute between the Tiv and Igede ethnic groups remains unresolved, despite efforts by past administrations.

Governor Issues 48-Hour Ultimatum Over Killings

Reacting to the twin tragedies, Governor Hyacinth Alia condemned both the Agatu attacks and the killing of the Igede youths. In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Tersoo Kula, the governor also condemned a separate attack in Nyifon community, Mbaikyongo Ward of Buruku LGA, reportedly carried out by youths from Mbayaka community in Kusuv, following a boat mishap-related dispute.

Governor Alia gave security agencies a 48-hour deadline to identify and apprehend the perpetrators.

“Nobody has the right to invade another community or inflict harm under any circumstance,” the governor said, adding that security operatives must liaise with traditional leaders to thoroughly investigate and restore calm.

“Benue is gradually regaining stability. I will not tolerate any act capable of undermining the peace we are working tirelessly to restore,” he added, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to protecting lives and property.

Senator, Youth Groups Condemn Killings

Senator Abba Moro, who represents Benue South Senatorial District and serves as the Senate Minority Leader, described the killings of the Igede youths as “barbaric and dastardly.” In a statement released by his media adviser, Emmanuel John, Senator Moro urged the state government to urgently intervene in the Gwer/Konshisha/Oju axis, where tensions and violence continue to escalate.

The Ito Youths Association (ITA) also condemned the killings. In a statement signed by its National President, Andrew Abi, and Secretary, Ijoga Ipesi, the group said:

“This act has once again shaken the fragile peace in our communities.”

Both the senator and the youth body called for swift action to prevent further bloodshed and ensure justice for the victims.