Tensions Surge in Benue as 259 Cattle Are Killed in Fresh Attacks

Benue State is experiencing a dangerous spike in tension following a series of violent incidents in which armed groups reportedly killed 259 cattle belonging to Fulani herders in Gwer West and Guma Local Government Areas.

According to accounts from herders, the attacks began on November 12. Armed men, travelling in both vehicles and on motorcycles, allegedly ambushed herding communities grazing peacefully in the affected areas.

In Naka, the headquarters of Gwer West LGA, herders reported major losses: Abdullahi Musa said 50 of his cattle were killed, Wakili Musa reported losing 51, and Maibargo Abubakar said 21 of his animals were slaughtered. Witnesses claimed that the attackers later displayed the carcasses in Naka town in a show of celebration.

A separate attack occurred the same day in Okohol, within Guma LGA, where one family reportedly lost 137 cattle. Some of the animals were removed by the attackers, while many others were left strewn across the fields.

Although military officers were said to have visited the scenes, neither the security agencies nor the Benue State Government has issued an official response so far. Local community figures say the incidents appear to be part of a recurring cycle of violence targeting herders, warning that the lack of accountability continues to embolden perpetrators.

Pastoralist groups are now appealing to federal security authorities to intervene urgently and prevent further escalation.