Gunmen Kill 11 in Christmas Day Attack on Benue Communities

At least 11 people were reportedly killed in a series of attacks by unidentified gunmen on December 25 in Nyiev-ya, Kwande Local Government Area of Benue State. The attacks occurred as residents celebrated Christmas with their families.

Eyewitness accounts revealed that the attackers, described as armed herders, invaded Ubutu and GSS Anwase communities, killing residents and setting houses ablaze. A local resident, speaking on condition of anonymity, disclosed that the community received a distress message during the attack. “Daniel Jam’s son was killed by the terrorists. Pray for our community for God’s and Government intervention,” the resident said.

Simultaneously, another attack was reported in Tse Azege and Ityuluv, also in the Nyiev-ya area. A resident pleaded for urgent intervention, stating that the onslaught continued into December 26.

Iorbee Ihagh, President General of Mzough U Tiv Worldwide and a native of Kwande LGA, confirmed the attack. He described it as unprovoked, adding that many victims remain unaccounted for. “Eleven people were reportedly killed yesterday. Leaders of the affected communities have lodged a report with the police,” Ihagh said.

Another local resident, Solomon Amande, corroborated the reports, attributing the killings to armed herders and militia groups.

When contacted, Benue State Police Public Relations Officer Sewuese Anene stated that she had no information on the incident.