Over 30 Dead in Benue as Rival Militias Clash
The Benue State Government has confirmed that more than 30 people were killed in a brutal attack by rival militias in Ayati village, Ukum Local Government Area, on Thursday night.
Mr. Matthew Aboh, the Commissioner for Information, Culture, and Tourism, disclosed the tragic incident during a press briefing on Friday in Makurdi. He revealed that 30 bodies had been recovered so far, with more victims feared dead as the search continues in nearby bushes.
Aboh attributed the massacre to ongoing supremacy battles between local militias, who have been engaged in a cycle of revenge attacks.
“Last night, I received a call about bandits attacking and killing residents in Ayati village. As of now, we have confirmed the deaths of 30 individuals. Unfortunately, the body count is still rising as more corpses are being found,” Aboh said.
He further explained that the violence is rooted in a long-standing feud between two factions with maternal ties to the villages of Ayati and Tine-nune, Mbatyem. “These groups have been embroiled in a series of retaliatory attacks, leading to this horrific incident,” he added.
A resident of Ukum, who requested anonymity for fear of reprisal, claimed that over 50 bodies have been discovered, contradicting the official figures.
When contacted, SP Sewuese Anene, the Public Relations Officer of the Benue State Police Command, confirmed the attack but stated that she was awaiting further details from officers on the ground. “I am aware of the attack and will provide more information once I receive a briefing,” she said.
God have mercy and put an end to destruction of lives