Christmas Day tragedy: Suspected herdsmen kill 11 in Benue

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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 occurred  on Wednesday, December 25, 2024, when the people were busy celebrating Christmas with their loved ones.

A local, who spoke on the condition of anonymity

for fear of victimization told our Correspondent on phone that they received a distress message that Nyiev-ya was  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 going on 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).

President General of Mzough U Tiv, (MUT) Worldwide, CP Iorbee Ihagh( retd), 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: “ Eleven 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 and  alleged  that the killings were carried out by a combined team of armed herders and militia groups.

As at the time of filing this report ,Benue State   Police Public Relations Officer, (PPRO), SP Catherine Anene said she was yet to be briefed about the attacks .

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