Benue State is once again facing violence and unrest after renewed attacks by suspected armed herdsmen in Agatu Local Government Area.
Over four days, nine people, including a police officer, were reported killed in what locals describe as sustained assaults on their communities.
According to reports, the assailants crossed into Benue from neighboring Kogi State. They targeted four communities – Okwutanobe, Okpokpolo, Olegagbani, and Ikpele – starting Friday and continuing through Tuesday.
James Melvin, Chairman of Agatu LGA, confirmed the fatalities. He said four people were killed in attacks on Okwutanobe, Okpokpolo, and Olegagbani, while five more, including a police officer, were murdered during a daytime raid in Ikpele.
Residents have begun fleeing their homes in fear, uncertain about future attacks. The chairman suggested the violence could be retaliatory, possibly in response to herders’ claims that their cattle were stolen by unknown individuals.
At the same time, tensions are rising between the Igede-speaking communities of Oju and Obi LGAs and their Tiv neighbors in Gwer East and Konshisha LGAs. Two Igede youths – Jonathan Ogah and Gabriel Ogodo – were allegedly ambushed and killed by Tiv youths while riding motorcycles on the Oju-Awajir road.
One of the victims was recently married, adding to the sorrow surrounding the incident. Their deaths triggered panic, leading to the suspension of travel on major routes. These killings have reignited long-standing disputes between Tiv and Igede communities over farmland ownership.
In another troubling incident, violence broke out in Nyifon community, located in Mbaikyongo Ward of Buruku LGA. Youths from Mbayaka and Kusuv communities reportedly clashed following a boat-related dispute, adding to the state’s fragile security situation.
Governor Hyacinth Alia responded by giving security agencies a 48-hour ultimatum to identify and arrest the perpetrators. In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Tersoo Kula, the governor condemned the killings and stressed that no group has the right to attack another community.
He directed law enforcement to work with traditional leaders and launch thorough investigations. His administration remains committed to maintaining peace and protecting lives and property.
Voices across Benue have joined in condemning the violence. Senator Abba Moro, representing Benue South, described the killing of the Igede youths as “barbaric” and urged the state government to intervene immediately.
The Ito Youths Association (ITA), representing Igede-speaking youths, expressed deep sorrow and warned that the peace in their communities is under serious threat.
Benue State has long been plagued by ethnic tensions and violent disputes over land and livestock. The recent attacks highlight the urgent need for sustainable solutions and unified efforts to end the cycle of violence.
