Gunmen attack Benue kill 9 -

At least nine people have been killed after suspected armed herders attacked three rural communities—Mbalom, Mbatsada, and Agana—in Gwer East Local Government Area of Benue State.

The attack reportedly occurred on Saturday evening between 5 pm and 6 pm, when gunmen stormed the communities, including a busy market in Mbalom, where residents had gathered for the day’s trading. Witnesses said the assailants carried out a violent attack, leaving multiple people dead and several others injured. Many residents fled their homes to escape the violence.

Confirming the incident, Gwer East LGA Chairman Timothy Adi said nine bodies had been recovered so far—two on Saturday and seven on Sunday. He described the incident as unprovoked and called on the federal government to take urgent action against armed herders operating in the state.

Tragedy in Benue, Kidnappers Hijack Vehicle, Murder Driver, Take Passengers

Efforts to reach the spokesperson of the Benue State Police Command, Udeme Edet, were unsuccessful.

Reacting to the killings, Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia condemned the incident, calling it a “barbaric act” and a threat to the state’s peace and security. In a statement, he expressed condolences to the victims’ families and assured residents that authorities are committed to bringing those responsible to justice.

The governor also praised security agencies, including the Nigeria Police Force, for their swift response and said efforts were ongoing to track down the attackers. He urged security forces to intensify operations to prevent further violence.

Alia further reassured citizens that his administration is strengthening security measures, improving intelligence gathering, and working with relevant stakeholders to restore lasting peace. He called on residents to remain calm and support security agencies with useful information.

The attack comes just a day after additional security personnel were deployed to Benue State to bolster safety during the Easter period.