A devastating attack by suspected armed herdsmen has left at least 11 people dead and several others injured in the Mbagena community, located in the Mchihe Council Ward of Katsina-Ala Local Government Area (LGA) in Benue State....Read Full Article >>➤
The attackers also set numerous houses ablaze and looted food stores, plunging the community into deep distress. Local residents reported that the armed assailants first invaded the community on Friday night, only to return in larger numbers on Saturday around 7 p.m., unleashing a wave of terror.
“They came back, shooting and killing anyone in sight. They also burnt homes and destroyed farm produce stored in food barns,” a resident recounted. By Sunday morning, 11 bodies had been recovered, with several individuals still missing. Injured victims were transported to hospitals in Katsina-Ala Town for urgent medical treatment.
Confirming the incident, Mr. Justin Shaku, Chairman of Katsina-Ala LGA, described the attack as “unprovoked.” “The killings occurred between 7 p.m. and 9 p.m. on Saturday. About 11 people lost their lives, while seven others with serious injuries are receiving treatment in undisclosed hospitals,” he stated.
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He further disclosed that he, along with a member of the House of Representatives representing the Sankera axis, were on the ground, working with locals to arrange burials and provide assistance to the affected families.
Chief Iorbee Ihagh, President General of Mzough U Tiv (MUT) Worldwide, condemned the attack and called upon authorities to deploy additional security personnel to the area to prevent further bloodshed.
Governor Hyacinth Alia, through his Chief Press Secretary, Tersoo Kula, issued a statement expressing deep condolences to the bereaved families and condemning the “loss of innocent lives and destruction of homes.”
“This level of cruelty is deeply offensive and will not be tolerated,” the Governor stated, assuring the public that those responsible would be brought to justice and that security forces had been deployed to the affected area.
“We are working closely with local law enforcement and community leaders to ensure our people can live peacefully, free from fear and violence,” he added.
Governor Alia also urged Benue residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities, emphasizing that security remains a top priority for his administration. “Together, we will overcome this challenge and strengthen our resolve to protect our homes and loved ones.”
As of the time of reporting, efforts to obtain official comments from the Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Catherine Anene, were unsuccessful.
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