Renewed violence by suspected armed groups has claimed at least 27 lives across communities in Benue and Plateau states, triggering widespread mourning, protests, and urgent demands for government intervention.

Fatalities and Community Impact in Benue State

In Benue State, at least 18 people were killed over the weekend during separate assaults in the Otukpo Local Government Area (LGA). The violence began on Friday when assailants invaded Akpachi village in the Ugboju community, killing two farmers on their land. The victims' bodies were recovered and buried the following day.

Less than 24 hours later, around 4:00 AM on Sunday, attackers struck the Otukpo-Nobi community. The early morning assault resulted in at least 16 fatalities, including women and children, and left several others injured.

The local government chairman, Maxwell Ogiri, confirmed the incidents and suggested the assaults may have been reprisal actions. This follows the assassination of Alhaji Ardo Risku Mohammed, the Benue State Chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), and his companion, Yakubu Isah, who were ambushed two weeks prior while returning from a peace meeting.

Public Outrage and Protests in Otukpo

The killings sparked significant unrest in Otukpo. Demonstrators carried the bodies of the victims to the palace of the Och’Idoma, disrupting a church service to demand immediate protective action from traditional and political authorities. Protesting youths blocked major transit routes, causing severe traffic gridlock and stranded commuters. Search and rescue operations remain ongoing for residents who are still missing.

In response, Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia condemned the violence, labeling it an assault on regional peace. Through his media office, the governor directed security forces to increase surveillance, collaborate with neighboring states, and apprehend the perpetrators. Local officials are currently working to relocate displaced survivors and provide medical assistance to the injured.

Family of Nine Killed in Plateau State

Simultaneously, a late-night assault on Saturday in Plateau State resulted in nine fatalities within a single family, including a two-month-old infant. The attack targeted the Kum and Wereng-Camp communities in the Riyom LGA.

According to local sources, the gunmen entered the communities around 11:30 PM, firing weapons indiscriminately for over an hour and forcing residents to seek refuge in surrounding areas. The village head was also critically injured during the incident.

The Berom Youth Moulders Association confirmed the attack, noting that the perpetrators used the cover of darkness to target vulnerable residents. While security personnel have since been deployed to stabilize the area, many residents remain displaced due to fears of potential follow-up attacks. Official comments from the Plateau State Police Command were unavailable at the time of reportage.