Suspected armed herdsmen amputate boat operator, injure others in Benue community

Makurdi, Benue State – Residents of Makurdi have been thrown into fear following a violent attack by suspected Fulani militants at Afubo Island, leaving a boat operator amputated and three others seriously injured.

The incident occurred around 6:15 p.m. on Wednesday, near the Nigerian Army School of Military Engineering, less than two kilometres from the 72 Special Forces Battalion.

Among the victims is Jerry Saleh, a canoe engine driver whose limb was severed. Two brothers, Edoh and Adah Adikwu, sustained machete wounds, while an unidentified Tiv farmer also suffered life-threatening injuries. The victims are currently receiving treatment at the Federal Medical Centre and Sandra Hospital Makurdi.

Eyewitnesses said the violence erupted after a dispute over transportation fares. According to reports, about ten passengers allegedly refused to pay after boarding a motorised canoe from Wadata Market to Afubo Island. The situation reportedly escalated when some passengers contacted armed accomplices waiting at the island, who then attacked passengers and nearby residents, mainly targeting Tiv and Agatu indigenes.

A local resident said, “They attacked without warning. It was brutal and coordinated.” Another added, “Afubo Island has become a dangerous hideout. Something urgent must be done.”

Residents have called on security agencies to dismantle suspected criminal camps in the area. As of the time of this report, DSP Udeme Edet, spokesperson for the Benue State Police Command, could not be reached to confirm the incident.