June 02, (THEWILL) – At least 48 farmers were killed on Sunday following attacks by suspected armed herders in Gwer West and Apa Local Government Areas of Benue State.
The fresh killings occurred barely a week after 40 people, including a police officer and pregnant women, were murdered in a similar attack in Gwer West.
Local sources said the latest assaults happened around 7pm in Edikwu Ankpali community and Tse Antswam, a suburb of Naka town.
The Chairman of the Gwer West Traditional Council, the Ter Nagi, HRH Daniel Abomtse, confirmed the incident, describing it as devastating.
“As I speak to you this Monday morning, 18 corpses have been recovered, many others are seriously injured, and scores remain missing.
“Some of the victims were butchered so badly that I doubt they’ll survive. Search operations are ongoing as many fled into the bush with gunshot wounds, while some reportedly jumped into wells to escape,” he said.
Similarly, the Chairman of Gwer West LGA, Victor Ormini, expressed grief over the escalating violence.
“This is becoming unbearable. Just last week, over 40 people were killed in this local government. Rather than subsiding, the violence is intensifying.
“The same Fulani attackers returned, this time striking in Naka town. As of now, more than 14 corpses have been recovered,” he lamented.
In Apa LGA, the council chairman, Adams Ocheiga, also confirmed that his community came under attack.
Spokesperson for the Benue State Police Command, DSP Udeme Edet, said tactical teams had been deployed to the affected areas.
“Our tactical teams are already on the ground and are on top of the situation,” she said.
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