Man Shot Dead in Suspected Cult Attack in Benue

A man identified as Tyohee Aseer has been shot dead in a suspected cult-related attack in the Wurukum area of Makurdi, Benue State.

The incident occurred on Sunday night, January 11, 2026, around 9:00 p.m., when gunmen believed to be cultists reportedly stormed Aseer’s residence on Ihumun Street, Wurukum, in a Toyota vehicle and opened fire on him.

Residents said the attackers shot the victim multiple times before fleeing the scene. Aseer was rushed to a nearby hospital, where he was confirmed dead on arrival.

Reacting to the killing, the Executive Chairman of Makurdi Local Government Council, Joseph Keffi, condemned the incident, describing it as unacceptable. In a statement issued on Monday, January 12, 2026, through his media aide, Teran Nathaniel, Keffi expressed concern over the rising cases of cult-related violence in the area.

He declared Wurukum, located in Walomayo Council Ward, a place of particular concern following repeated reports of youth killings linked to suspected cult activities. The latest incident comes barely a week after several people were killed during rival cult clashes in parts of the state.

Keffi expressed sympathy to the family of the deceased and residents of the community, noting that the continued loss of young lives was troubling.

The council chairman assured residents of renewed efforts to improve security and restore calm across the local government area. As part of immediate steps, he directed the Deputy Chairman to convene an emergency security meeting with youth leaders and other stakeholders to address the causes of cultism and explore measures to prevent further violence.

He also appealed to youths in the area to stay away from cultism and criminal activities that threaten public safety and community stability.