Suspected herdsmen kill nine in fresh Benue attacks

Despite the heavy deployment of security personnel, suspected herdsmen launched deadly attacks on two communities in Benue State on Friday, killing nine farmers.

The coordinated assaults occurred in Ayilamo, located in Tombo ward of Logo Local Government Area, and in Jato-Acka, Kwande Local Government Area.

Eyewitnesses reported that over 20 armed herdsmen stormed the quiet town of Jato-Acka in broad daylight, shooting indiscriminately. Six people were killed during the attack.

The assailants later moved through the Ikyungwa axis to Ayilamo, where they killed three more individuals, including a member of the state’s Livestock Guard.

A community leader, Tyovenda Igyutu, told newsmen that the quick intervention of soldiers and police likely prevented the complete destruction of Ayilamo.

In Jato-Acka, youth leader Lawrence Akerigba confirmed the incident, saying, “The invaders stormed the town around 4 p.m. on Friday, opened fire on residents, and set several houses ablaze.”