In a horrifying recurrence of violence, suspected armed herdsmen launched a deadly attack on Gbagir community in Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State on Good Friday, targeting Christian worshippers on their way to church.
Eyewitnesses reported that the attackers, wielding AK-47 rifles, stormed the village at about 6:00 am, catching the residents off guard as they prepared for early morning worship. The ambush left no fewer than 10 people dead, including women and children, while over 25 others sustained varying degrees of injuries.
A local source who narrowly escaped the onslaught confirmed the incident, stating, “The herdsmen invaded the neighbouring Chito community on Thursday and killed two people. The next day, they came into Gbagir and opened fire on innocent people heading to church. It was a massacre.”
The source added that the dead bodies were being moved to the palace of the community's traditional ruler as residents decried government inaction and abandonment.
“We are on our own. These attacks keep happening and not once has the government sent in security to protect us. We are tired of crying,” he lamented.
This fresh wave of violence has once again raised concerns over the unending attacks by suspected herdsmen in Benue communities, especially during sacred occasions. The attack on Good Friday, a day of solemn Christian observance, has sparked outrage and mourning across the state.
Attempts to reach the spokesperson of the Benue State Police Command, CSP Catherine Anene, for an official statement were unsuccessful as of the time of this report.
Benue State, often referred to as the food basket of the nation, has continued to reel under the weight of repeated attacks by suspected herders, leaving hundreds dead and thousands displaced over the years.
The community is calling on both the state and federal governments to take decisive action to end the bloodshed and protect innocent lives.