23 Persons Killed In Fresh Herdsmen Attacks On Benue Community

At least 23 people were reportedly killed in an attack on Anyiin in Logo Local Government Area (LGA) of Benue State, allegedly carried out by suspected Fulani militia herdsmen on Wednesday evening.

The attack, which started around 6:32 p.m. and lasted over three hours, has left many missing, according to sources. Conflicting reports have emerged about the exact number of casualties, with some suggesting that the death toll might be even higher.

Benue State Police Command confirmed the incident but has yet to release detailed casualty figures. Police spokesperson, SP Sewuese Anene, acknowledged the attack, stating, “The attack in Anyiin is confirmed, but details are not available at this time. More information will be provided as soon as possible.”

Local elder Joseph Anawa described the incident as a coordinated assault, with over 200 heavily armed attackers storming the town, firing sporadically and ambushing fleeing residents. According to Anawa, this was the second assault in a month; on October 9, Fulani militia attacked Ayilamo, killing many.

Displaced communities, including Ukemberagya, Tswarev, Mbawar, Gov, Mbainange, and Tombo, have sought refuge in Anyiin, although many are now leaving due to fear of further violence. Anawa urged the federal and state governments to revive the abandoned Mobile Police Barracks project near Anyiin to enhance security in the area. He also appealed to representatives at state and national levels to bolster security in Gaambe-Tiev communities to allow farmers to safely harvest their crops.

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Among those killed in the attack were Orihundu Ati, a retired school supervisor, the son of Kindred Head Zaki Mbatern, the son of former Chief of Staff Tordoo Suswam, and the son of Mr. Uyange Chembe, brother of the late District Head, Zaki John Chembe.