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The people of Mbamsorun Iwanenev, Mbagen, in Buruku Local Government Area of Benue State are mourning the loss of two members of the Community Volunteer Guard following a deadly armed attack on their community.
Eyewitnesses alleged that the assailants, identified as Ikpa Bagu, Adum, Gudugudu, Apisko, and Age Aondowase, stormed the area and opened fire, killing the two guards on the spot. The attack sent shockwaves through the community, with residents fleeing in panic as gunmen unleashed terror.
During the incident, one person was reportedly abducted but was later released unharmed without any ransom payment, according to community sources.
Residents pointed to Gbeleleve and Amile as major crossing points frequently exploited by criminals to gain access to the area. They described these routes as notorious security flashpoints and urgently called on security agencies to deploy personnel and intensify surveillance along these vulnerable corridors.
Community members, particularly those living along the Jato-Aka axis, have been advised to remain highly vigilant and security-conscious amid heightened tensions. The attack has further deepened fears in an already fragile security environment in parts of Buruku.
The community has made a passionate appeal to relevant authorities — including the Benue State Government and security agencies — to intervene decisively by strengthening security presence, establishing permanent outposts where necessary, and taking concrete steps to prevent further loss of lives and restore lasting peace.
The killing of the two community guards has once again highlighted the persistent insecurity challenges facing rural communities in Benue, where volunteer vigilantes often bear the brunt of defending their people in the absence of adequate formal security coverage.
As investigations continue, residents insist that swift and visible action is needed to reassure the population and halt the cycle of violence in the area.
