At Least 17 Feared Dead as Gunmen Attack Benue Community on Easter Sunday

A fresh wave of violence has struck Benue State, with at least 17 people reported dead following an attack on Mbalom community in Gwer East Local Government Area.

The incident occurred on April 5, 2026, the same day residents were marking Easter celebrations, when armed assailants reportedly invaded the community without warning and opened fire on villagers.

Eyewitness accounts indicate that the attackers not only shot at residents but also set several homes ablaze, causing widespread destruction and forcing many people to flee into nearby bushes in search of safety.

As of the latest reports, several individuals remain unaccounted for, with ongoing search efforts by residents and local authorities. A community member described the situation as devastating, noting that many victims were caught completely off guard during the assault.

The attack has once again highlighted the persistent security challenges facing rural communities in Benue State, particularly those reliant on farming, where recurring violence has disrupted livelihoods and displaced families.

Reacting to the development, the Governor of Benue State, Hyacinth Alia, strongly condemned the killings, describing the incident as brutal and unacceptable.

In a statement issued through his Chief Press Secretary, Tersoo Kula, the governor extended condolences to the families of the victims and assured residents that those responsible would be tracked down and brought to justice.

He also raised concerns about what he described as a pattern of coordinated attacks in parts of the state and pledged to strengthen security measures to prevent further occurrences. The governor commended security agencies for their response so far and urged them to intensify operations against those behind the violence.

The latest attack brings back memories of a similar tragedy in April 2018, when suspected armed herders attacked a Catholic church in the same community, killing two priests and several worshippers during a service.

Authorities say investigations into the current incident are ongoing, while security operatives have launched efforts to pursue the attackers and restore calm to the affected area.