A series of violent raids by suspected armed groups has claimed the lives of 27 individuals across communities in Benue and Plateau states. These incidents have sparked widespread grief and urgent calls for state intervention.
In Benue State, 18 people lost their lives in the Otukpo Local Government Area. The assaults began on Friday in Akpachi village, where two farmers were killed. By Sunday morning, another 16 people were killed in the Otukpo-Nobi community. Local officials, including Otukpo LGA Chairman Maxwell Ogiri, believe these events may be retaliatory following the recent murder of the local Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association chairman. Protesters later brought the victims’ bodies to the palace of the Och’Idoma, demanding enhanced security.
Governor Hyacinth Alia denounced the violence, labeling it a barbaric act, and has tasked security forces with tracking down the perpetrators. Meanwhile, in Plateau State, nine members of a single family, including an infant, were murdered in the Riyom Local Government Area. Gunmen targeted the Kum and Wereng-Camp communities late Saturday night, operating for over an hour before fleeing. The Berom Youth Moulders Association confirmed the tragedy and called for federal action to protect vulnerable areas.
