Two farmers killed by suspected armed herdsmen in Benue

Two farmers have reportedly been killed in separate attacks by suspected armed herdsmen in communities within Gwer West Local Government Area (LGA) of Benue State.

These incidents come just weeks after a similar attack sparked a violent protest by youths in Naka, the LGA’s headquarters. That protest led to widespread destruction, including the burning of the local government secretariat, the traditional ruler’s palace, and homes belonging to prominent residents.

A source in Naka, who spoke on condition of anonymity, revealed that the victims were killed along major access routes leading into the Council Headquarters.

“One of the victims was murdered on Wednesday at Atukpu village, just a kilometre from Naka town, along the Taraku-Naka road,” the source said. “On the same day, another person was killed along the Naka-Adoka road.”

The source further noted that the Makurdi-Naka road has become impassable due to the presence of armed herdsmen, prompting commuters to avoid the area entirely. “All three routes into the local government area are now unsafe. The corpses of the two victims had to be recovered using a wheelbarrow,” the source added.

Confirming the attacks, the Chairman of Gwer West LGA, Mr. Victor Ormin, expressed deep concern over the escalating insecurity.

“A young man was killed on the Taraku-Naka road while trying to buy roofing materials for his house. Another was murdered along the Adoka-Naka route. These incidents are now happening almost every day,” he said.

He stressed that the attacks are now occurring within five kilometers of Naka town. “Naka is no longer safe. It is very troubling,” Ormin added.

The Council Chairman also warned that security forces deployed to the area may be overwhelmed, despite ongoing efforts by Governor Hyacinth Alia to address the growing insecurity.

Attempts to reach the Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Catherine Anene, for comment were unsuccessful as of press time.