Armed Attack in Benue Claims Nine Lives on Saturday

On Saturday, armed men attacked the Mbalom community in Gwer East Local Government Area, Benue State, resulting in the deaths of at least nine individuals. The assault occurred between 5 PM and 6 PM, coinciding with market day, as residents gathered for trade.

Timothy Adi, the chairman of Gwer East LGA, confirmed the attack, stating that nine corpses had been recovered, with some residents sustaining injuries and others fleeing to safer areas. The attack was described as unprovoked, prompting Governor Hyacinth Alia to condemn the violence in a statement issued on Sunday by his chief press secretary, Kula Tersoo.

Alia characterized the incident as a barbaric act and expressed sympathy for the victims' families. He urged the federal government to assist in curtailing the activities of armed herders in the state.

In response to the ongoing violence, the Benue State Police Command announced the deployment of additional tactical teams to enhance security and ensure a peaceful Easter celebration.