A fresh wave of violence has once again plunged Benue State into mourning after suspected armed herdsmen reportedly invaded Efeyi community in Ugboju, Otukpo Local Government Area, killing at least 13 residents and leaving several others missing.
The deadly attack, which occurred on Tuesday, has renewed fears over the worsening security situation in parts of the state, where communities have repeatedly come under assault from armed groups.
According to reports, the gunmen stormed the community without warning and opened fire indiscriminately on residents, forcing many villagers to flee into nearby bushes in a desperate bid to save their lives.
By the time the attackers retreated, the once peaceful community had been transformed into a scene of devastation, with families left searching for loved ones amid growing uncertainty.
Local sources said 13 bodies have so far been recovered, while search-and-rescue efforts are still ongoing as residents and volunteers comb surrounding forests and farmlands for those who remain unaccounted for.
The actual casualty figure is feared to be higher, as several residents are still missing following the attack.
Survivors described the assault as sudden and brutal, saying many people were caught off guard as the attackers unleashed gunfire across the community.
The latest killings have triggered panic in neighbouring communities, with fears that more attacks could occur.
Police Yet To Release Full Details
When contacted over the incident, the spokesperson for the Benue State Police Command, Edet Udeme, said she was still gathering information and would provide further details after receiving a comprehensive report on the attack.
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As of the time of filing this report, security authorities had yet to issue an official casualty update or confirm whether any arrests had been made.
The latest tragedy adds to the growing list of deadly attacks that have continued to plague Benue communities in recent months, despite repeated calls for stronger security measures.
Residents have repeatedly appealed for increased deployment of security personnel, warning that persistent attacks have disrupted farming activities, displaced families and deepened humanitarian challenges across affected areas.
The attack is expected to intensify renewed calls for urgent government intervention to halt the recurring violence and restore confidence among vulnerable rural communities.