Tragedy struck late Friday night in Yelewata, a quiet community in Benue State, as suspected herdsmen carried out a brutal attack that claimed several lives and left many others wounded. The assault, which reportedly began around 10:00 p.m., sent shockwaves through the area, with residents fleeing into the darkness to escape the gunfire.
Early Saturday morning, around 4:00 a.m., local sources confirmed that no fewer than 16 people had sustained various injuries. The full number of those killed in the raid has not yet been confirmed, as security officials and emergency responders continue to assess the damage.
The violence triggered an immediate response from the Nigerian Army and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), who rushed to the area following a distress call. However, their mission was cut short when they were ambushed at Daudu, a nearby location, while on their way to Yelewata.
Sadly, the ambush led to the deaths of two soldiers and one NSCDC officer. A local source shared a message of grief, saying, “These brave men paid the ultimate price in service to our people. Their sacrifice will never be forgotten.”
Those who survived the late-night attack were rushed to the Benue State University Teaching Hospital (BSUTH) in Makurdi. Medical staff at the hospital are now in urgent need of blood to save lives. Doctors and nurses have called on members of the public and humanitarian groups to step in quickly with blood donations and other forms of support.
“My heartfelt condolences go to the families of the victims, especially our fallen heroes in uniform,” said one concerned citizen. He also noted that he had chosen not to share any disturbing photos out of respect for those who lost their lives.
