Benue govt to hold mass burial for farmers killed on Christmas Day herdsmen attack

Farmers in Benue State who were tragically killed by terrorists and armed herdsmen on Christmas Day are set to be given a mass burial on Wednesday.

IDOMA VOICE reported that at least twenty people lost their lives in a brutal daytime attack on December 25, 2023, which also resulted in numerous homes being destroyed and many residents displaced.

In response, the state government has provided motorcycles to the families of victims whose bikes were burned during the attack, along with financial assistance to aid in the burials and alleviate the impact of the tragedy.

Heavily armed security personnel, including police, soldiers, and Civil Defense Corps, are being deployed in the Turan district to ensure the burials proceed smoothly.

According to reports, life is becoming increasingly difficult for residents as more farmers are fleeing the affected areas in fear. Many displaced individuals are seeking refuge in safer locations, carrying their children and food supplies.

Meanwhile, the Association of United Farmers Benue-Valley (AUFBV), led by President Dennis Gbongbon Utsa, has called for divine intervention to address their suffering.

During a thanksgiving service at the Chapel of Grace in Makurdi, Mr. Utsa expressed gratitude to God for sustaining internally displaced persons (IDPs) despite their hardships, and urged for divine intervention to restore peace and safety to the region.

“We seek God’s intervention for vulnerable families who have endured constant killings, displacement, and separation from their homes and loved ones. We turn to prayer now after exhausting all avenues for peace and security,” he said.

Rev. Fr. Clement Ugoh, Chaplain of the Chapel, delivered a sermon encouraging Christians to be guiding lights, drawing parallels between their role and the star that led the wise men to Christ.