In a tragic recurrence of violence in Benue State, no fewer than 11 individuals lost their lives in a fresh attack on Afia community, located in Ukum Local Government Area. The assault, reportedly carried out by armed herdsmen in the early hours of the day, adds to the ongoing insecurity that has plagued the region for over a decade. The Ter Ukum, HRH Iyorkaa Kaave, confirmed the attack and appealed for urgent intervention, stating that the community could no longer coexist with violent intruders posing as herdsmen. He emphasized that the attackers were different from the peaceful herders who previously cohabited with the locals.

During a meeting at the Benue Government House in Makurdi, the National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, addressed the situation and assured the people of Benue that the federal government was committed to resolving the crisis. Ribadu acknowledged that President Bola Tinubu inherited a deeply flawed security landscape but is working diligently to rectify the situation. He pledged that the security apparatus would confront and overcome the violence, urging citizens to avoid politicizing the issue and instead unite for peace.

Governor Hyacinth Alia echoed these concerns, describing the state as being under siege since 2011. He highlighted the extensive damage caused by these recurrent attacks, which have resulted in the displacement of thousands and the establishment of 17 internally displaced persons (IDP) camps. According to the governor, the persistent assaults on areas such as Katsina-Ala, Ukum, and Logo LGAs have severely disrupted agricultural activities, particularly in Sankera, a key food-producing region. He noted that 72 people had recently been killed in what he described as “venomous attacks,” and called for intensified federal support.

To bolster security, the state has procured 100 Hilux vehicles and 600 motorcycles for law enforcement agencies. However, Governor Alia lamented the lack of adequate weaponry and manpower, stating that the attackers often take advantage of the communities’ defenselessness. He also noted that many of the assailants speak Fulani and Hausa, suggesting a targeted and strategic form of aggression.

In response to the crisis, the state’s two paramount traditional rulers, Tor Tiv VI, HRM James Ayatse, and the Och’Idoma, HRM Dr. John Odogbo, convened separate meetings with stakeholders from the Tiv, Idoma, and Igede communities. These gatherings aimed to address the deepening insecurity and explore communal solutions. While details of the meetings were not disclosed, the commitment and turnout from influential leaders and former governors reflected a unified resolve to safeguard the future of Benue State.