Bloodbath in Benue as rival cult gangs clash, eight killed

At least eight people have been killed in a series of violent clashes between rival cult groups across Benue State, security sources have confirmed. The incidents, linked to a struggle for territorial control, occurred in Makurdi, the state capital, Jato Aka in Kwande Local Government Area, as well as earlier outbreaks in Otukpo and Gboko towns.

The clashes began a few days ago in Otukpo, where one person was killed, and Gboko, where two others lost their lives. The violence later spread to Makurdi and Jato Aka on Wednesday, leaving three people dead in Makurdi and two in Jato Aka.

An eyewitness in Makurdi said the victims were shot at close range during separate attacks that started around midnight in the Wurukum area of the town.

“Mr. Hundred was shot opposite the Wurukum Mosque. Mr. Martins Dagba, also known as ‘Wonder,’ was killed near Solace Hotels, while Mr. Aondoaseer Yisa, also called ‘Poka,’ was shot on Usman Street,” the eyewitness said. “After the shootings, the attackers fled. We also heard about earlier clashes in Gboko and Otukpo. The loss of lives is disturbing.”

The Chairman of Makurdi Local Government Area, Mr. Joseph Keffi, condemned the killings, describing them as senseless. In a statement issued by his Media Aide, Nathaniel Mayorofmbawa, Keffi expressed sympathy with the families of the victims and the affected communities.

He assured residents that the council was working with security agencies and relevant stakeholders to restore peace and strengthen security across the area. He also urged residents to remain calm, stay alert, and report suspicious activities to law enforcement authorities.

Meanwhile, the Benue State Police Command confirmed the clash in Jato Aka. The command’s spokesperson, Deputy Superintendent of Police Udeme Edet, said police officers attached to the Jato Aka Division responded to a violent confrontation between rival cult groups known as Red and Black at about 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday.

According to her, the clash led to the death of two men, while others sustained injuries and were taken to medical facilities for treatment. She said eight suspects were arrested during the police operation.

The suspects were identified as Adebo Mvaater, Pineter Akurayati, Daniel Ese, Samuel Kwaghzer, Isaac Iorapul, Terungwa Tertese, Aondonenge Aper, and Ternenge Aondokura. Police also recovered one locally fabricated pistol, one expended cartridge, two axes, and two machetes. Other suspects involved in the violence are said to be on the run.

Edet said investigations were ongoing and that those arrested would be charged to court, adding that the Commissioner of Police remained committed to tackling cultism and other criminal activities across the state.