At least nine people have lost their lives following a deadly attack by suspected armed herdsmen on Agena community in Mbalom, located in Gwer East Local Government Area of Benue State.
The assault, which occurred in the early hours of Saturday, left the community devastated, with several houses, the local market, and food storage facilities set ablaze. Residents reported that the attackers struck around 5 a.m. while many people were still asleep, catching the community off guard.
According to eyewitness accounts, the assailants, believed to be over 50 in number, carried out a coordinated operation. As residents attempted to escape, the gunmen reportedly opened fire indiscriminately, killing several individuals and leaving others injured. One injured victim is currently receiving medical treatment, while many others remain missing.
A local resident described the incident as a heartbreaking event, especially as the community had been preparing for Easter celebrations. The attack has revived painful memories of a similar tragedy in April 2018, when gunmen invaded St. Ignatius Catholic Church in the same area, killing 19 people, including two priests.
Confirming the incident, the Security Adviser to the Gwer East Local Government Chairman, Austin Awua, stated that most of the victims were young men. He also noted that the exact number of casualties may increase as search efforts continue.
Authorities say the community has largely been deserted, with many residents fleeing for safety. Security agencies, including the Army, Police, and Civil Defence Corps, have since been deployed to restore order and prevent further violence.
The Chairman of Gwer East LGA, Timothy Adi, assured residents that additional security measures have been put in place and that search-and-rescue operations are ongoing.
Meanwhile, Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia condemned the attack, describing it as barbaric and unacceptable. He expressed sympathy to the affected families and reaffirmed his commitment to protecting lives and property. The governor also pledged to strengthen security efforts and ensure those responsible are brought to justice.
