Residents of villages in Katsina-Ala and Logo local government areas of Benue State are fleeing for their lives after violent attacks by armed assailants left many dead and others injured.
Reports from local sources indicate that at least 30 people were killed in the raids, which occurred on Sunday and the early hours of Monday. These attacks targeted multiple communities, marking yet another episode of violence in a region that has faced repeated assaults in recent years.
Witnesses who spoke to DAILY TRUST described a scene of terror, with villagers abandoning their homes to seek refuge in nearby bushes.
“As we speak, I am right in the bush with other villagers. They have killed many people in my Mbatuyla council ward of Katsina-Ala LGA,” said David, a local resident. Another resident, Francis, stated: “Everyone is running for safety in the affected areas. I can say with certainty that massive killing is ongoing in some villages of Katsina-Ala LGA right now.”
Community leaders reported significant casualties and destruction. In Logo, Chief Joseph Anawah recounted an invasion by over 300 armed men in Tombo Council Ward, leaving at least 20 dead. A similar attack in Katsina-Ala claimed multiple lives. Locals criticized the limited capacity of security forces, with a military jet eventually driving the attackers to retreat.
The Chairman of Katsina-Ala LGA, Justine Shaku, confirmed six deaths in his area, emphasizing that the assailants also injured several people and destroyed farmlands. Meanwhile, Logo LGA Chairman Clement Kav reported 17 fatalities and 37 injured individuals in his domain. He revealed that the attackers claimed ownership of the land, adding, “The governor has mobilized more security to the area, and peace has been restored.”
Police confirmed recovering five bodies but stated that investigations are ongoing to identify the perpetrators. Catherine Anene, the Police Public Relations Officer, said security personnel have been deployed to the affected areas.
