Gunmen Kill APC Chieftain, Three Others in Benue Community Attack

Gunmen suspected to be armed herders launched a deadly attack on Tuesday evening in the Mbatsada communities of Mbalom and Mbasombo council wards in Gwer East Local Government Area of Benue State, killing four people, including a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Akaabo Johnson.

Eyewitnesses from the area said the attackers stormed the communities around 4:35 p.m., opening fire indiscriminately in a style likened to a military operation. The violent invasion left residents in shock and mourning as the bodies of the victims were later recovered and taken to St. Gregory Hospital morgue.

Confirming the incident, Chairman of Gwer East LGA, Timothy Adi, described the assault as unprovoked and raised concern over the rising frequency of such attacks. He noted that this was the second assault by suspected herders in the area within two weeks. According to Adi, security personnel have now been deployed to protect the boundary lines of the council in an effort to prevent further violence.

Adi urged residents, especially youths, to remain vigilant and report any suspicious movement to the authorities. He emphasized the importance of unity and courage in the face of such tragedy, while commending Governor Hyacinth Alia for his swift response and support, which ensured the prompt deployment of security forces.

Efforts to reach the Benue State Police spokesperson, Catherine Anene, for official confirmation were unsuccessful as calls to her phone were unanswered and text messages had yet to be returned at the time of filing this report.