Suspected Cult Attack Leaves Residents Dead in Benue -

At least eight people have been reported dead following a suspected cult-related attack in Makurdi, the Benue State capital, in the early hours of Monday.

The incident, which occurred along Aliade Street, threw the community into panic as armed men reportedly stormed the area around 2:00am.

According to eyewitness accounts, the attackers targeted a residential compound, killing occupants in a coordinated assault.

A local resident, who spoke anonymously, disclosed that the gunmen invaded the street and opened fire on individuals inside a house, leaving multiple victims dead at the scene.

Confirming the development, the Chairman of Makurdi Local Government Area, Joseph Keffi, stated that the assailants arrived on motorcycles between 2:00am and 2:30am.

He explained that four individuals were initially dragged out and shot, while four others who came out after hearing gunshots were also killed.

Describing the incident as tragic and disturbing, Keffi alleged that the attack was linked to ongoing cult clashes in the area.

He further revealed that the victims were not cult members but were targeted for allegedly sheltering an individual believed to be affiliated with a cult group.

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Security agencies have since been alerted, and the area has been cordoned off as investigations continue.

Authorities have also begun efforts to track down the perpetrators.

Meanwhile, the Benue State Commissioner of Police, Ifeanyi Emenari, confirmed the attack but indicated that the official casualty figure is lower than what has been widely reported, adding that a detailed statement would be released.

Sources say the bodies of the victims have been deposited in morgues at the Benue State University Teaching Hospital and other facilities within Makurdi.

The incident adds to growing concerns over cult-related violence in parts of the state, with residents calling for stronger security presence and swift justice.