No fewer than 27 people have been killed in fresh attacks on communities in Benue and Plateau states, sparking outrage and renewed calls for urgent government intervention.
In Benue State, at least 18 people were killed in separate attacks in Otukpo Local Government Area. The violence began on Friday when suspected armed herdsmen attacked Akpachi village, killing two farmers. Their bodies were recovered and buried the following day.
Less than 24 hours later, at about 4 a.m. on Sunday, the attackers struck again in Otukpo-Nobi community, killing at least 16 people, including women and children, and injuring several others.
The attacks come weeks after the killing of the state chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), Alhaji Ardo Risku Mohammed, raising concerns of possible reprisals.
Angry youths in Otukpo staged protests, carrying victims’ bodies to the palace of the Och’Idoma and blocking major roads. They accused authorities of failing to protect lives and demanded immediate action.
Chairman of Otukpo LGA, Maxwell Ogiri, confirmed the incidents and said efforts were underway to assist survivors, relocate displaced residents, and improve security.
Governor Hyacinth Alia condemned the killings, describing them as barbaric, and directed security agencies to intensify operations to apprehend the perpetrators.
In Plateau State, nine members of the same family, including a two-month-old baby, were killed in a late-night attack on Kum and Wereng-Camp communities in Riyom Local Government Area.
Residents said gunmen stormed the area around 11:30 p.m. on Saturday, shooting indiscriminately for over an hour. The village head was also reportedly injured.
Local leaders confirmed the attack and said security agencies had been notified. Residents have called for stronger protection as fear spreads across affected communities.
Security personnel have since been deployed, but many residents remain displaced and anxious over further attacks.
