By SUNTV Global Channel | December 25, 2025
Makurdi — At least five persons have been confirmed dead, while several others remain missing following a fresh and brutal attack by suspected armed herders on Ortese community along the Igyungu Aze–Yogbo road in Guma Local Government Area of Benue State.
The Christmas-season assault left many residents injured, with reports that several people were abducted and taken to unknown destinations by the attackers. Community sources fear the death toll may rise, as numerous villagers are still unaccounted for and local youths have launched search operations in surrounding bushes.
Those confirmed dead include Solo Uchi from Tse Hagher, who was killed while working on his farm; Iorlaha from Orogbo; and Tersoo Uker from Tse Uker—all communities within Guma LGA.
A resident, who spoke to SUNTV Global Channel on condition of anonymity, described the scene as horrifying.
“What we are seeing is terrifying. This attack happened on Tuesday, just two days after the Daudu incident where two people were killed. So far, five bodies have been recovered, but many people are still missing. We fear more corpses may be found.”
One of the victims, Tersoo Uker, was said to be an Internally Displaced Person (IDP) who had gone to Tse Avule, behind the Igyungu Aze IDP camp, to cut grass for roofing a makeshift shelter outside the overcrowded camp.
Residents said the assailants mounted a blockade on the Ortese–Yogbo road, ambushing travelers and villagers. Victims who attempted to escape into nearby bushes were reportedly chased down.
“They blocked the road completely and started shooting,” a youth leader alleged. “Some people died instantly, while others ran into the bushes and were pursued. Many were captured alive and taken away.”
The discovery of more bodies in nearby bushes has heightened fear and panic, forcing families to flee their homes amid growing insecurity in the area.
“Our people are no longer safe,” another resident lamented. “Families are running away because no one knows when these attackers will strike again.”
Efforts to reach the Police Public Relations Officer in the state, DSP Udeme Edet, for official comments were unsuccessful as of the time of filing this report.
The latest violence adds to the worsening security situation in Benue State, particularly in rural communities that have repeatedly come under deadly attacks.
SUNTV Global Channel will continue to monitor and report developments as they unfold.
