Ukum LGA Under Attack: Suspected Herdsmen Kill, Injure Benue Residents

Several communities within Benue State's Ukum Local Government Area endured a brutal assault on Sunday, as suspected herdsmen, described as terrorists, claimed lives and left others wounded. The violent incursion unfolded during the early hours of Sunday, impacting Mbaterem, Ayaba, Ikpur, Yina, Aboajio, and Ukpen communities, all located within Mbazun Ward.

Following the incident, Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, expressed his appreciation for the swift intervention by security forces. He extended his condolences to the families who lost loved ones in the attack. In a statement released on Sunday by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Tersoo Kula, Governor Alia reaffirmed his administration's commitment to providing continuous support to security agencies to ensure the protection of state residents.

The statement conveyed, “Governor Hyacinth Alia appreciates the prompt response by security agencies in the herdsmen terror attack on Ukum Local Government Area.” It further detailed, “Terrorists masquerading as herdsmen in the early hours of today invaded and attacked the people of Mbaterem in Ayaba, Ikpur, Yina, Aboajio, Ukpen communities of Mbazun ward, killing some and inflicting injuries on others.” The Governor, it added, “consoles those who lost loved ones and the injured, vowing to keep giving the necessary support to security agencies to effectively protect the state.”

Governor Alia also issued a stern warning to individuals he accused of attempting to disrupt the peace initiatives within the state. He declared, “Benue lands for Benue people. Anyone who thinks the attacking us will intimidate us to leave the land is making a mistake.” He emphasized his unwavering dedication, stating, “I took an oath to protect our people, and I will not relent. I must appreciate the fact that the federal government is advancing a lot of support for us to tackle these acts of terrorism.”

Furthermore, the governor implored citizens to remain vigilant and promptly report any suspicious activities to the relevant authorities. “Like I always say, you must all remain vigilant and always ensure that you forward information on suspicious movements around you. This is the only way we can be able to effectively tackle these criminals,” he advised. He also instructed security agencies to maintain a visible presence in critical areas across Benue to confront what he termed “enemies of the state” who persist in their nefarious acts. Governor Alia assured the populace of his government's continued dedication to safeguarding them.

The recent attack in Ukum is consistent with a series of deadly incursions that have plagued Benue State in recent weeks. PUNCH Online previously reported an incident on Thursday night where gunmen abducted 14 passengers from an 18-seater bus along the Ankpechi–Omutele axis of Ohimini LGA. Police later confirmed the rescue of five victims, including a four-year-old boy, with nine individuals still held captive as of Friday.

Earlier in July, suspected armed herders were responsible for the reported deaths of at least 16 people in Nobi. Later that same month, the Efeyi community was invaded by suspected armed herders, resulting in the killing of 15 people. PUNCH Metro recounted that these suspects reportedly stormed the community around 5 am, unleashing a barrage of gunfire. Mr. Obi offered prayers for the souls of the deceased and called upon the government to implement more robust measures for community protection. He prayed, “May the souls of the departed continue to rest in perfect peace. Amen.”