Two days of sustained attacks by armed Fulani herdsmen on the Mbagena Community in Mchihe Council Ward, Katsina-Ala Local Government Area (LGA) of Benue State have resulted in the killing of some 11 people and the injuring of dozens.
Local sources reported that the attackers spent the two days setting houses ablaze and looting food barns.
Governor Hyacinth Alia has expressed sorrow over the incident.
Confirming the incident, Chairman of Katsina-Ala LGA, Mr. Justin Shaku, described it as an unprovoked attack.
“The killings occurred between 7 p.m. and 9 p.m. on Saturday. About 11 people lost their lives, while seven others with serious injuries are receiving treatment in undisclosed hospitals,” he said.
According to surviving victims, the armed Fulani men first invaded the community on Friday night.
On Saturday around 7pm, they returned in larger numbers for another round of terror.
So far, 11 bodies had been recovered by Sunday morning, with several others remain missing.
Injured victims were taken to and admitted in hospitals in Katsina-Ala Town for treatment.
Shaku further disclosed that he was at the scene alongside a member of the House of Representatives representing Sankera axis, working with the locals to arrange burials and assist affected families.
President General of Mzough U Tiv (MUT) Worldwide, Chief Iorbee Ihagh, condemned the attack and urged authorities to deploy more security personnel to the affected area to prevent further bloodshed.
Reacting to the incident, Governor Hyacinth Alia, in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Tersoo Kula, expressed deep condolences to the affected families and condemned the loss of innocent lives and destruction of homes.
“This level of cruelty is deeply offensive and will not be tolerated,” the Governor said.
He assured the public that those responsible would be brought to justice, stating that security forces had already been deployed to the troubled area.
“We are working closely with local law enforcement and community leaders to ensure our people can live peacefully, free from fear and violence,” he added.
Governor Alia also urged Benue residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities, emphasizing that security remains a top priority for his administration.
“Together, we will overcome this challenge and strengthen our resolve to protect our homes and loved ones.”
