Easter: Bloodbath in Benue as bandits killed 17, several others injured

No fewer than 7 persons were on Sunday killed by armed Fulani herders in Mbalom community in Gwer East Local Government Council of Benue State.

The recurrent herders’ attack on the community has left a trail of bloodbath on the people, even as several houses were set ablaze.

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CAPITAL POST recalled that similar attack occurred April 24, 2018, with two Catholic priests, Rev. Fr. Joseph Gor and Rev. Fr Felix Tyolaha, alongside 17 worshippers killed by suspected armed herders at St. Ignatius Parish in Ukpor Mbalom.

The victims were given mass burial by the administration of former Governor Samuel Ortom.

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CAPITAL POST gathered that herders stormed the community late Saturday till Sunday morning, after which 17 bodies were recovered in the early hours of Sunday.

As at Sunday morning, residents in the community have completely deserted, while several persons were reported missing.

Though, recovered bodies have been deposited at the hospital morgue, Governor Hyacinth Alia was quoted to have condemned the heinous attack and urged security agents to go after the perpetrators of the heinous act.

In a statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Sir Tersoo Kula, on Sunday, quoted Alia have described the attack as barbaric which is unacceptable to the state’s collective peace and security.

The governor sympathise with families affected by the attack, assuring them that government will stand by them.
He vowed to confront insecurity in Benue State, stressing that the pattern and selective attacks in parts of the State will not be allowed to thrive.

The statement reiterated the state governor’s unwavering resolve to confront and subdue all forms of criminality threatening the safety of Benue communities.

The governor commended security agencies, particularly the Nigeria Police Force, for their swift response and ongoing efforts, noting their assurance that they are on the heels of the perpetrators and will ensure their arrest and prosecution.”

He urged security operatives to intensify operations to forestall further occurrences and bring lasting relief to affected communities.

While acknowledging the challenges posed by these attacks, Governor Alia assured the people of Benue State that his administration will not relent or leave anything to chance in its duty to safeguard lives and property.

He emphasised that every necessary measure is being taken to strengthen security architecture, enhance intelligence gathering, and collaborate with relevant stakeholders to restore enduring peace.

While calling on residents to remain calm, vigilant, and law-abiding, Governor Alia charged them to continue supporting security agencies with credible information that can aid ongoing operations.

However, Benue State Police Command’s spokesperson, DSP Udeme Edet, did not respond or return calls when contacted over the attack.

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