Killings In Benue Are Linked To Herdsmen Attack

The rate of insecurity in Benue State has taken another dark route, with more bodies recovered following a recent violent clash linked to Fulani herdsmen terrorists. Benue State under the leadership of Governor Hyacinth Alia has continued to face herdsmen attack, the crisis continues to escalate, leaving locals in fear, frustration, and deep mourning.

At least three people have been killed and several others severely injured in Okpomaju village, Okete Ward, Otukpo Local Government Area, after a heated confrontation between community hunters and armed Fulani herdsmen. For months, residents have cried out over rising cases of murder, rape, and destruction of farmlands, all allegedly carried out by these herders. Yet, despite numerous pleas, their concerns seem to have fallen on deaf ears.

Tired of living in terror the local hunters took matters into their hands, taking up arms and to defend their community in what turned into a deadly clash. The incident, which happened on Monday, has since thrown the community into a state of panic, forcing many, particularly women and children, to flee their homes in fear of further attacks.

Eyewitnesses report that a group of newly arrived, heavily armed Fulani herdsmen stormed the Okpomaju community, opening fire on sight at local hunters. Two hunters were killed instantly, while several others sustained life-threatening injuries. In retaliation, the surviving hunters fought back, turning the village into a battlefield.

Meanwhile, the search for more missing persons continues, with some bodies yet to be accounted for.

Amid the mounting death toll and displacement of residents, Governor Hyacinth Alia has been accused of hiding the true scale of the crisis in an attempt to paint a picture of peace.

Former Governor Samuel Ortom has openly challenged his successor’s claims, exposing mass burials and ongoing violence in several local governments, including Ukum, Logo, Katsina-Ala, Gwer East, and Agatu.

With villagers fleeing their homes, farmlands destroyed, and local security overwhelmed, residents are left asking: Who will defend Benue from this endless cycle of violence?

The clash at Okpomaju village is not an isolated case—it is part of a larger crisis that has plagued Benue for years. While government officials exchange words, innocent lives continue to be lost.