The IDOMA National Youth Council has raised an alarm over the alleged movement of a group of suspected hired mercenaries through Doma Local Government Area of Nasarawa State towards Benue State border communities.
According to a statement from the group, intelligence received on the evening of July 28, 2026, at about 18:45 hours indicated that approximately 70 motorcycles carrying the suspects passed through Doma town. They were reportedly heading towards Rukubi village and possibly onward to Andoli, a settlement located on the bank of River Benue.
Preliminary information suggests the group may attempt to cross into Benue State. The council urged that residents of Benue border communities in Agatu, Apa, Ohimini, Makurdi, Otukpo, Okpokwu, Guma and other neighbouring local government areas be placed under heightened security protection immediately. It also noted that additional hired mercenaries were expected to arrive in Nasarawa State.
The group called on the Benue State Government and security agencies to put in place proactive measures to avert further attacks on border communities. Suggested steps include informing naval personnel to deploy boats along River Benue at Rukubi, Andoli and other known crossing points to prevent night crossings; establishing mobile checkpoints on major entry routes from Doma LGA into Agatu, Apa and Guma, particularly motorcycle routes; positioning quick intervention units in Otukpo, Makurdi and Agatu for rapid response; and increasing joint military patrols along border areas during late hours, with the possible use of drones and other aerial assets.
