By SUNTV Global Channel
At least 16 people have reportedly been killed following a deadly early-morning attack on Nobi community in Otukpo Local Government Area of Benue State, sparking widespread protests and the blockade of major roads by angry residents.
The attack, believed to have been carried out by suspected armed herders, occurred in the early hours of Sunday, sending residents fleeing for safety as gunmen allegedly opened fire on the community.
Following the incident, scores of women and youths took to the streets in protest, barricading key routes, including the Makurdi–Otukpo and Enugu–Otukpo highways, as well as roads leading to the palace of the Och’Idoma. Demonstrators called on the government and security agencies to take urgent action to end the recurring violence in Benue South.
A resident, Comfort Inalegwu, said the attackers invaded the community between 3:30 a.m. and 4:30 a.m., shooting indiscriminately at villagers.
According to her, the attack claimed the lives of at least 16 people, including her sister and two children, while several others sustained injuries. She added that many residents remained missing as of Sunday.
The witness lamented the continued insecurity in the area and warned that residents, particularly women, would sustain their protests unless decisive measures were taken to protect communities from further attacks.
Reacting to the tragedy, Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia condemned the killings, describing them as a brutal assault on innocent citizens and an attempt to destabilise peace in the state.
In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Tersoo Kula, the governor said the assailants reportedly attacked Akpachi Village in Akpa, Otukpo Local Government Area, while residents were asleep.
Governor Alia expressed sympathy with the affected families and assured residents that his administration would intensify efforts to tackle insecurity across the state.
“My government stands firmly with you, and we will not allow our communities to be turned into killing fields,” the governor said.
He further directed security agencies to strengthen collaboration with neighbouring states, increase surveillance and patrol operations in vulnerable communities, and ensure that those responsible for the attack are apprehended and prosecuted.
The latest incident adds to the growing security concerns in Benue State, where repeated attacks on farming communities have left hundreds dead and displaced thousands of residents in recent years.
Security agencies have urged residents to remain vigilant and provide timely information that could help prevent future attacks.
