The death toll from the brutal attacks by suspected herders on several communities in Ukum and Logo Local Government Areas (LGAs) of Benue State has now reached 20, according to Governor Hyacinth Alia.
The attacks took place on Thursday and Friday, leaving a devastating mark on the affected areas. Suspected armed herders launched coordinated assaults on these rural communities, resulting in the deaths of numerous residents. Among the victims was an entire family of eight, and many others sustained severe injuries. Some residents are still missing, and search efforts are ongoing.
By Friday afternoon, the Benue State Police Command confirmed the recovery of 17 bodies from the two LGAs, but this number continued to rise as search operations expanded. Moments later, more bodies were discovered, pushing the death toll to 20.
Governor Alia addressed the public, expressing deep sorrow over the loss of lives. “It is with a heavy heart that I address the people of Benue State regarding the recent coordinated attacks by suspected herdsmen on our beloved communities in Ukum and Logo Local Government Areas,” he said. The governor described the tragic situation, noting that five bodies were initially recovered in Gbagir and taken to the mortuary, with two additional bodies found later by locals searching for their loved ones.
The violence has deeply affected the region, with one family insisting on an immediate burial for their deceased relative in Gbagir. In response, security forces stood by to ensure the safety of the family during the burial process. In Logo, 12 more bodies were recovered by the police, bringing the total death toll in the two LGAs to 20.
“These are not just numbers; these are fathers, mothers, children, brothers, and sisters whose lives were cut short by senseless violence,” Governor Alia noted. He expressed his commitment to ensuring the safety of the people of Benue and vowed not to back down in the face of this violence.
The governor also called on the people of the state to work together in the fight against these attacks, urging them to provide any information that could help authorities identify and apprehend the perpetrators. “I have spoken directly with our security operatives and I want to assure you, we are not backing down. We remain committed to protecting every Benue life,” he said.
Governor Alia concluded his message with a call for unity: “Benue will not bow to fear. We will rise, rebuild, and remain unshaken.”
