OTUKPO, BENUE STATE — Anger and grief swept through parts of Benue State on Sunday following the killing of at least 16 residents in a fresh attack on Nobi community in Otukpo Local Government Area.
According to local sources, suspected armed herders stormed the community in the early hours of Sunday, opening fire on residents and leaving a trail of destruction.
The attack reportedly claimed the lives of 16 villagers, while several others sustained injuries and fled for safety.
The incident triggered widespread outrage among residents, with youths and community members taking to the streets in protest.
Demonstrators reportedly blocked major roads in Otukpo, demanding urgent government intervention and improved security measures to protect lives and property.
Witnesses described scenes of panic as the attackers invaded the community, forcing many families to abandon their homes.
Residents lamented the recurring attacks in the area, accusing authorities of failing to curb the persistent insecurity affecting rural communities in the state.
Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia condemned the killings, describing the attack as barbaric and unacceptable. He assured residents that security agencies had been directed to pursue those responsible and bring them to justice.
The latest violence adds to growing concerns over recurring clashes and attacks in Nigeria’s Middle Belt region, where disputes involving farming communities and armed groups have continued to claim lives and displace thousands of residents.
As of the time of filing this report, security operatives had been deployed to the affected area, while community leaders called for increased protection to prevent further attacks.
Suspected herders kill 16 villagers in Benue
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