From Scholastica Hir, Makurdi
No fewer than 11 persons have been reportedly killed in a fresh attack on some communities of Nyiev-ya in Kwande Local Government Area (LGA) of Benue State.
It was gathered that the incident took place on Wednesday, December 25, 2024 when the people were busy celebrating Christmas with their loved ones.
A local who didn’t want to be named for fear of victimization told newsmen on phone message that they received a distress message that “Nyiev-ya is on fire.”
The source said “The terrorist herders came this afternoon (December 25), and invaded Ubutu and GSS Anwase, killing and burning houses.
“Daniel Jam’s son was killed by the terrorists. Pray for our community for God’s and Government intervention.”
While the killing was going on in Tse Azege community, another resident also informed that an attack was also on going in Ityuluv, in Nyiev-ya community.
He said “If there is anything the chairman or the government will do, let it be fast. The news coming from Kwande is still not pleasant. The terrorist herders have continued with their onslaught against our people today, (December 26).
The President General of Mzough U Tiv, (MUT) Worldwide, CP Iorbee Ihagh rtd who hails from Kwande LGA said he contacted the community head in the area who confirmed the attack saying that several people were killed on Christmas day and the attack was unprovoked.
Ihagh said “11 people were reportedly killed during the attack on Kwande LGA yesterday.
“The attack was unprovoked but the attackers who were herdsmen invaded the communities and attacked the people. Many are still missing. Leaders of the affected communities have reported the attack at the police station.”
Another native, Solomon Amande, whose community was affected, confirmed the death of 11 persons alleging that the killings were carried out by a combined team of armed herders and militia groups.
As at the time of this report, the Police Public Relations Officer, (PPRO) Benue State Command, SP Catherine Anene said she does not have the report yet.