Suspected armed herdsmen launched coordinated attacks on Yelewata and Daudu communities in Guma local government area of Benue State, killing at least 200 people, including internally-displaced persons (IDPs), women, children, and five security personnel.
The attackers struck Yelewata late at night, storming from two directions and overwhelming local resistance. They set fire to market stalls and homes, burning entire families alive — many of them IDPs seeking shelter. Children and toddlers were reportedly slaughtered.
A simultaneous attack on Daudu was met with stronger resistance, but still left soldiers and police officers dead. Authorities say over 46 people are hospitalized, with the death toll expected to rise as search efforts continue.
Community leader Matthew Mnyan described the massacre as premeditated, noting the communities had received prior warnings. He alleged the assailants aim to displace locals and seize land.
President of the Association of United Farmers Benue Valley (AUFBV), Chief Dennis Gbongbon, confirmed that the majority of victims were farmers-turned-IDPs. He warned the attacks reflect the growing threat to Tiv farmers and called for urgent government intervention.
Reacting, the Benue State Police Command, in an issued statement by its Public Relations Officer, Deputy Superintendent (DSP) Udeme Edet confirmed the development, but failed to state the casualty figure.
