Residents of Ipugbogbo Ugboju Icho in Otukpo Local Government Area of Benue State have raised the alarm over a fresh attack allegedly carried out by Fulani herdsmen. According to eyewitness accounts and social media videos circulating online, the community came under heavy assault, with reports indicating significant casualties and widespread fear among the people.
One resident, in a distress video, stated that the village was under attack and urgently called for security intervention. Another video captured a young man addressing the public, claiming that around 30 lives were lost in the incident which occurred in the early hours of the day. He described gunmen armed with sophisticated weapons, including AK-47 rifles, invading the community and shooting indiscriminately.
In response to the attack, angry youths took to the streets, blocking major roads and bringing movement to a halt in protest. Videos from the scene show groups of people gathered along the road, with some vehicles and motorcycles stationary as demonstrators expressed frustration over the lack of security. Bullet casings were also displayed as evidence of the intensity of the assault.
Community members are calling on both the Benue State and Federal Governments to provide immediate security and protection, with some voices demanding ammunition to enable self-defence if the government cannot guarantee their safety. The situation has heightened tension in the area, with residents fearing further attacks and struggling to carry out daily activities, including farming.
This latest incident adds to the long-standing security challenges in parts of Benue State, where clashes between farmers and herdsmen have persisted for years. As of now, there has been no official confirmation from security agencies regarding the casualty figures or the current status of the situation.
