Targule Aya has been reunited with his 10-month-old baby boy, the only surviving member of his family, following a deadly attack in Yelewata community, Guma Local Government Area of Benue State.
The emotional reunion took place on Tuesday at the Benue State University Teaching Hospital (BSUTH), where the baby had been receiving medical treatment. Aya, who barely survived the attack himself, had lost his wife and three other children during the violent incident over the weekend.
According to reports, suspected armed herders stormed the Yelewata and Daudu communities, leaving behind a trail of destruction and death. The number of those killed in the attacks has reportedly risen to 200, sparking fear and sorrow throughout the state.
Hope was restored for Aya when a fellow survivor, who is also being treated at the same hospital, recognised the baby. The individual immediately reached out to authorities, leading to Aya’s location and the long-awaited reunion with his child.
Witnesses at the hospital described the scene as deeply moving, with Aya breaking down in tears as he held his son for the first time since the tragedy.
Hospital staff confirmed the story and noted that the BSUTH remains committed to the well-being of the infant. A representative from the hospital stated, “We are offering full medical care for the baby to make sure he gets better. We will continue supporting him in every way possible.”
In response to the growing crisis, President Bola Tinubu is expected to visit Benue State on Wednesday. During the visit, he is scheduled to meet with a range of local leaders, including traditional rulers, political figures, religious heads, and youth representatives.
