Residents of Efeyi-Utikpi community in Ugboju District, Otukpo Local Government Area of Benue State, have conducted a mass burial for victims killed in a recent violent attack by suspected armed herders.
The tragic incident occurred in the early hours of Tuesday, July 28, 2026, when gunmen stormed the agrarian community, leaving at least 15 people dead, several others injured, and multiple homes destroyed.
On Saturday, grieving families, community leaders, and religious figures gathered in an emotional ceremony to lay the victims to rest. Dozens of white caskets were arranged in an open field as a Catholic bishop officiated the funeral rites.
The victims, which included men, women, and children across different age groups, were identified as: Okpe Philip, Joy Samuel, Success Onche, Apeh Samuel, Emmanuel Agwu, Ikpe John, Ameh Fredrick Owoicho, Onche Abechi, Sunday Alechenu, Isaac Ejembi, Emmanuel Ejiga, Edache Abechi, Abogonye Ameh, Chinedu Ameh, Michael Abalike, and Emmanuel Adidu.
Community leaders expressed deep frustration over the recurring attacks in rural areas of Benue State, lamenting what they described as inadequate security despite repeated assurances from authorities.
Related News:
Many Feared Dead, 30 Missing in Benue Attack
Benue Seminarian Regains Freedom After Escaping Kidnappers
Suspected Herders Kill Four in Fresh Attack on Benue Community
Clergy members and residents called on both federal and state governments to take decisive action to end the persistent violence and protect vulnerable communities.
This latest tragedy comes weeks after a similar incident on July 12 in Otukpo-Nobi community, where eight people were killed and buried in a separate mass funeral.
A resident, Attah Rueben, described the atmosphere as heartbreaking, noting that the community is still struggling to come to terms with the loss.
Meanwhile, Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, has condemned the attack and urged security agencies to track down and prosecute those responsible.
The recurring violence continues to raise serious concerns about the safety of rural communities in the state.
About The Author
