17 Killed in Coordinated Militia Attacks on Benue Communities – Police

At least 17 people have been confirmed dead following coordinated attacks on communities in the Sankera axis of Benue State, according to the state police command.

The Police Public Relations Officer, SP Sewuese Anene, in a statement released on Friday, said the killings resulted from an invasion by a large group of suspected militia members. The attacks targeted Gbagir in Ukum Local Government Area (LGA) and Logo LGA in the early hours of Friday.

“Information was received that a large number of suspected militia had invaded the Sankera axis of Benue State with the intention to attack communities around Gbagir,” Anene stated.

The Commissioner of Police, CP Steve H. Yabanet, immediately deployed tactical teams to the area, directing them to join forces with officers on the ground and other security agencies. During the operation, the attackers reportedly opened fire on unsuspecting farmers, killing five people in Gbagir. While the police were engaged in repelling the militia in Gbagir, another coordinated attack was launched in nearby Logo LGA, where 12 people were killed before security operatives arrived, bringing the total number of casualties to 17.

Security forces are still engaging the armed group as they reportedly retreat into the forests bordering Taraba State.

In response to widespread speculation on social media claiming the death toll was as high as 100, the police urged the public to avoid spreading unverified reports that could incite panic. “The CP warns social media users... to desist from such actions that are capable of creating unnecessary tension in the state,” the statement said.

Fresh Attacks in Otukpo LGA

The latest incident comes just two days after renewed violence in Otukpo LGA, where suspected herders attacked three communities—Emichi, Odudaje, and Okpamaju—leaving several feared dead. These attacks occurred shortly after the killing of 11 people in Otobi community, also in Otukpo, earlier in the week.

Local sources reported that the assailants launched simultaneous strikes on the villages, reviving fears in an area that has witnessed recurring violence. In February, five people were killed in similar attacks on the same communities.

Governor Hyacinth Alia has condemned the killings. Speaking after the Good Friday Mass at Holy Ghost Parish in Makurdi, the state capital, Alia expressed outrage and called on residents to resist resorting to self-help.

He confirmed the arrest of three suspected herders in connection with the Otobi incident and announced that the state government, in partnership with the Office of the National Security Adviser, is developing a strategic plan to curb the violence.

“I urge all residents to remain vigilant and to cooperate with security agencies by volunteering timely and useful information,” the governor said.

The recent wave of attacks has intensified calls for a stronger security presence and more proactive measures to protect vulnerable communities across Benue State.