Scores Killed As Bandits Attack Benue Community

At least 30 individuals were reportedly killed in an attack on Ayati village, located in Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State, on Thursday night.

Local sources informed The Punch via phone on Friday that the assailants, comprising local bandits and suspected armed herdsmen, launched a brutal attack on the village.

Ayati village is increasingly becoming a hotspot for violence within Ukum LGA.

Naija News reports that this attack comes just weeks after a violent protest erupted, resulting in the destruction of private and government properties following the killing of 11 people in the same community.

A resident, who wished to remain anonymous, reported that bandits from the Ayongou faction, in collaboration with Fulani herders, were responsible for the assault on innocent villagers Thursday night.

Supporting this account, a community leader and former governorship aspirant in the state, Shima Ayati, confirmed the attack and stated that more than 30 bodies had been recovered from the scene.

Speaking by phone on Friday, Ayati explained, “What I heard is that some bandits received money from some herders to graze their animals in two council wards.

“As they were grazing, they came in conflict with farmers who ran to government. The government sent security who went and pursued the herders away. During the process, they burnt their (herders) makeshift tents.

“They (herders) became angry as they claimed to have given money for the land, so they went back to the bandits. The herders joined hands with the bandits to attack the village and massacre people.

“We have already gathered over 30 corpses. They are still searching.”

The spokesperson for the state police command, SP Catherine Anene, confirmed the occurrence of the attack but stated that she was still awaiting a detailed report from officers on the ground.

She noted, “I’m aware there was an attack and I’m waiting for briefing from officers on ground.”