Over 23 feared dead as herdsmen launch three-hour attack on Benue state community

About 23 persons have been reported killed by Fulani militia herdsmen during an attack on Anyiin, in Logo Local Government Area (LGA) of Benue State.

According to media reports, the attack which commenced at about 6:32 pm on Wednesday, and lasted for over 3 hours, left many missing.

The Benue State Command of the Nigeria Police confirmed the incident, but remained silent on the details of casualties from the incident.

The Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Sewuese Anene who confirmed the attack said, “The attack in Anyiin is confirmed but there are no details at the moment. More information will be communicated to you as soon as I receive it.”

Joseph Anawa, an elder in the area, told Daily Independent: “In a co-ordinated operation, the Fulani terrorists took residents unawares, surrounded the town and shot sporadically in the air as people scampered for safety they ran into their well-orchestrated ambush.

“The attackers numbering over 200 were heavily armed with dangerous weapons such as AK47 among other sophisticated guns raided the town in an operation that lasted for about 3 hours.

“The security operatives stationed in the town were overwhelmed because of the invaders’ large number.

“This is the second attack in one month by the Fulani terrorists. On October 9, 2024, Fulani militia attacked Ayilamo town the headquarters of Tombo council ward and killed scores of people.

“Displaced communities of Ukemberagya, Tswarev, Mbawar, Gov, Mbainange, and Tombo among others are taking refuge in Anyiin town. Meanwhile, people are deserting Anyiin town for fear of the unknown.”

He said among those that were killed were Orihundu Ati a retired Primary school supervisor and the son of the Kindred Head of Mbawuave, Zaki Mbatern as well as the son of Tordoo Suswam, erstwhile Chief of Staff to a former Logo LGC Chairman, and the son of Mr Uyange Chembe younger brother to late District Head of Ukemberagya, Zaki John Chembe.