Thursday, June 18, 2026

The Sun Nigeria

Easter Tragedy: Herdsmen invade Benue community, kill nine, one critically injured

Herdsmen-Have-Killed-Over-600-In-54-Attacks-On-Benue-Community-In-11-Years-—-FoTA

… Alia condemns attack, vows to protect lives, property

From Scholastica Hir Makurdi

Again, nine persons have been killed in a fresh attack by gunmen on Mbalom community in Gwer-East Local Government Area (LGA) of Benue state.

Our correspondent gathered that the incident happened in broad daylight when Herdsmen invaded a market in Jande Mbatsada village and killed nine person.

The Chairman of Gwer East, Timothy Adi confirmed this to newsmen on phone in Makurdi.

Mr Adi said nine persons were killed, while one person was critical injured and is admitted at the hospital.

According to him, the incident took place between 5-6pm on Saturday.

He noted that the state Commissioner of Police, CP Ifeanyi Enemari, have visited the area and have deployed security to the area adding that the situation is calm now. Gwer LG Chair said.

Meanwhile, the Benue state Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia has strongly condemned the heinous attack carried out by suspected armed herdsmen on the peace-loving people of Mbalom in the Gwer-East LGA.

The Governor described the barbaric act as unacceptable, and a direct affront to the collective peace and security of the state.

Governor Alia expressed deep sympathy to families affected by the attack and assured them that the government stands firmly with them in this difficult time.

Governor Alia noted with grave concern the pattern of what appears to be calculated and selective attacks in parts of the state, stressing that such acts of terror, though increasingly hydra-headed in nature, will not be allowed to thrive.

He reiterated his unwavering resolve to confront and subdue all forms of criminality threatening the safety of Benue communities.

The Governor commended security agencies, particularly the Nigeria Police Force, for their swift response and ongoing efforts, noting their assurance that they are on the heels of the perpetrators and will ensure their arrest and prosecution.

He urged them to intensify operations to forestall further occurrences and bring lasting relief to affected communities.

While acknowledging the challenges posed by these attacks, Governor Alia assured the people of Benue State that his administration will not relent or leave anything to chance in its duty to safeguard lives and property.

He assured that every necessary measure is being taken to strengthen security architecture, enhance intelligence gathering, and collaborate with relevant stakeholders to restore enduring peace.

While calling on residents to remain calm, vigilant, and law-abiding, Governor Alia charged them to continue supporting security agencies with credible information that can aid ongoing operations.

The Benue State Government under his leadership remains resolute in its commitment to protect its citizens and will not be deterred in its pursuit of peace, justice, and security for all.