Benue: Four killed, several missing as herdsmen attack Akpete in Apa LG

Suspected armed herdsmen on Thursday evening launched a deadly attack on Akpete community in Apa Local Government Area of Benue State, killing at least four people and leaving many others injured and missing.

Eyewitnesses reported that the assailants stormed the community around 5:30 p.m., firing sporadically at residents. The sudden onslaught caused widespread panic, with many villagers fleeing into nearby bushes or seeking refuge in neighboring communities.

“They came out of the bush and started shooting randomly,” a local resident recounted. “Four people were killed, several others were injured, and some residents are still missing. There are fears that some of the missing may have been abducted.”

In response to the violence, military personnel were deployed to the area. However, the attackers had fled before their arrival. The assault has sparked mass displacement, with many residents now relocating to Ugbokpo, the headquarters of Apa LGA, in search of safety.

Chairman of Apa Local Government Council, Mr. Adams Ochega, confirmed the incident and condemned the attack as unprovoked.

“We have never had any dispute with the Fulani herders,” Ochega said. “This was an unprovoked and senseless attack on innocent villagers. Four people were killed, others were injured, and some are yet to be accounted for.”

Ochega added that the local government has mobilized additional security, including mobile police officers from Makurdi, and that soldiers are now on ground in Akpete to prevent further violence and restore calm.

Authorities say investigations are ongoing and that efforts are being intensified to locate the missing and bring those responsible to justice.