ENUGU, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA)- Fresh violence has claimed four lives in Benue State after suspected armed herders reportedly invaded Abaushwa community in Guma Local Government Area, the hometown of former Governor Samuel Ortom, in a midnight attack that also left several residents injured and others unaccounted for.
The assailants were said to have stormed the rural settlement late Monday while residents were asleep, attacking homes and opening fire on occupants. Local sources said many families were caught unaware as the attackers moved from house to house during the assault.
Community members disclosed that three people died at the scene, while another victim later succumbed to injuries after being taken to the General Hospital in Gbajimba for treatment. Search efforts were continuing on Tuesday as residents looked for persons believed to be missing after the attack.
The latest incident has heightened fears among communities in Guma, one of the Benue local government areas repeatedly affected by violent attacks linked to the protracted farmers-herders conflict.
Former Executive Secretary of the Benue State Teaching Service Board, Dr. Frank Kyungun, who visited the affected community alongside former Governor Samuel Ortom and other leaders from the area, condemned the killings, describing them as senseless and unprovoked.
He said community leaders appealed to residents to remain peaceful and cooperate with security agencies investigating the incident, while expressing concern that repeated efforts by locals to avoid confrontation had failed to prevent fresh bloodshed.
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According to him, the affected communities had taken several measures over the years to minimise tensions, including discouraging activities capable of provoking conflict, yet innocent residents continued to bear the consequences of recurring attacks.
Chairman of Guma Local Government Area, Morris Orwough, also denounced the assault, describing the killings as unacceptable and extending condolences to the families of the victims.
He disclosed that security personnel had been deployed to the community to restore confidence among residents, strengthen surveillance and prevent further attacks.
The council chairman also urged members of the public to support ongoing security operations by providing credible information that could assist investigators.
The Benue State Police Command confirmed the incident, stating that four persons lost their lives during the attack. Police spokesperson, DSP Peter Aondona, said investigations had commenced and assured residents that efforts were underway to identify and apprehend those responsible.
The latest attack underscores the persistent security challenges confronting several communities across Benue State, where recurring violence has continued to claim lives, displace families and threaten agricultural activities despite repeated security interventions.