At least 16 people have lost their lives following renewed violence in Benue State after suspected armed herdsmen carried out coordinated attacks on multiple communities.
The incidents occurred in two separate local government areas, Otukpo and Kwande. According to eyewitness accounts, gunmen stormed villages in both LGAs, opening fire on residents and setting homes ablaze.
Several others were left with severe injuries and are currently receiving treatment at nearby health facilities.Security sources say the attacks were carried out in quick succession, leaving communities in panic and forcing many residents to flee for safety.
The scale of the violence has further heightened fears in rural areas that have been repeatedly targeted in recent years.Local leaders and survivors have called for urgent government intervention to prevent more bloodshed.
They are also demanding increased security presence to protect vulnerable communities and allow displaced families to return home.As of press time, authorities have not released an official statement on the attacks. The death toll may rise as more information emerges from affected areas, while rescue and recovery efforts continue on the ground.
