Several villages in Katsina-Ala and Logo local government areas of Benue State were attacked by gunmen, leaving at least 30 people dead and many others injured. The attacks, which happened on Sunday and early Monday, forced many residents to flee their homes and hide in bushes for safety.
Reports from the affected communities say the gunmen killed 10 people in Katsina-Ala and 20 in Logo LGA. Properties were also destroyed.
David, a resident of Katsina-Ala, said:
“I am hiding in the bush with other villagers. They killed three people in my village. Everyone has run away, and some are going to the city.”
Another resident, Francis, said:
“The killing is too much. People are running for their lives. Nobody is safe.”
A local cleric described the situation as terrifying:
“The attackers are killing innocent people, destroying houses, and injuring many. Villages are now empty. Some people are still in the hospital.”
The Chairman of Katsina-Ala LGA, Justine Shaku, confirmed the attacks. He said six bodies were recovered from two communities, but the actual number of deaths could be higher.
“Armed herders invaded our villages, killed people, and destroyed farmlands. The communities are now in disarray,” Shaku said.
In Logo LGA, Chairman Clement Kav reported that 17 people were killed and 37 injured in Tombo council ward. He said the attackers claimed ownership of the land.
A community leader in Logo, Chief Joseph Anawah, said over 300 armed men attacked early on Sunday. Local security forces were overwhelmed until a military jet arrived to push back the attackers.
“More than 20 people were killed in the attack, and we are still searching for missing persons,” he said.
A resident of Logo added:
“14 bodies were found immediately after the attack, and more were discovered in nearby bushes.”
The Benue State Police confirmed the attack but said only five bodies were recovered. Police spokesperson Catherine Anene said investigations are ongoing and security has been increased in the affected areas.
The Benue State government also assured residents that security operatives are working to prevent further attacks.
The attacks have left many residents homeless and grieving. Some people are still hiding in bushes, while others have fled to nearby cities.