An attack by gunmen suspected to be Fulani herders has left at least 17 persons dead in Mbalom community, Gwer-east Local Government Area, in Benue State.
Many properties were also destroyed in the attack, which reportedly started at about 5pm on Saturday and continued until 10pm.
According to TheCable, Udeme Edet, police spokesperson in Benue, confirmed the incident on Sunday.
Edet said investigations are ongoing, adding that more information would be made available when gathered.
According to reports, a security alert was issued regarding the presence of about 50 armed herders dressed in black overalls moving from Nyiti, Makurdi LGA, to Atondiir in Gwer west, where Easter celebrations were scheduled to take place.
Meanwhile, Hyacinth Alia, governor of Benue, in a statement issued by Tersoo Kula, his chief press secretary (CPS), “strongly condemned the heinous attack.”
“The Governor describes the barbaric act as unacceptable, and a direct affront to the collective peace and security of the state,” the statement reads.
“He expresses deep sympathy to families affected by the attack and assures them that the government stands firmly with them in this difficult time.”
Alia noted that the attacks formed a pattern that appeared to be “calculated and selective” in parts of the state.
The governor added that the incidents have become increasingly hydra-headed in nature and reiterated his “unwavering resolve” to confront and subdue all forms of terror in the state.
He urged residents to remain calm, vigilant, and law-abiding, asking them to continue supporting security agencies with credible information that can aid ongoing operations.
