Suspected herdsmen raze school, destroy seed yams in fresh Benue attack

Suspected armed herders have reportedly razed a classroom block at L.G.E.A. Primary School in Akombo, near Ayiim, located in Logo Local Government Area of Benue State.

The attack, said to have occurred on Thursday, also resulted in the destruction of stored seed yams, while sporadic gunfire created panic among residents of the community.

The area has been plagued by recurring security challenges, with local farmers frequently expressing concerns over the safety of accessing their farmlands due to repeated attacks in nearby settlements.

According to residents, the fire broke out in the evening, leaving part of the school structure badly damaged.

Farm produce, especially seed yams kept close to the affected building, were equally consumed by the flames.

Eyewitnesses further reported hearing gunshots during the incident, prompting many villagers to flee their homes in search of safety.

The development has heightened fears among locals, many of whom are now reluctant to return to their farms, while appealing for increased security presence to safeguard lives and property.

Reacting to the incident, Hulega Keghter Kenneth said, “We thank God that no life was lost, but there is growing uncertainty about returning to our farms in the affected areas.”

As of the time of filing this report, authorities had yet to release an official statement, while attempts to reach the spokesperson of the Benue State Police Command, DSP Udeme Edet, were unsuccessful, as calls to her phone went unanswered.