At least 10 people are feared dead and several others injured after suspected armed herdsmen attacked communities in Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State on Sunday.
The attacks reportedly hit parts of Mbazun Mbaterem, including Tse Yawe, Ikpuu (Kpuu), Ter Ukum Orkaa Kaave and Tse Kyaave, forcing hundreds of residents to flee to nearby communities.
However, the Benue State Police Command confirmed three deaths and four injuries.
In a statement, its Public Relations Officer, DSP Peter Aondongu, said the attack happened around 7am at Aboajo Village, Mbateren Mbazum Council Ward, Ukum LGA.
The statement read: “The Benue State Police Command confirms that an attack occurred today, August 16, 2026, at about 7am, at Aboajo Village, Mbateren Mbazum Council Ward, Ukum LGA.
“Three persons were killed in the attack, while four others sustained machete injuries and were rescued to a medical facility for treatment.
“The Command has deployed additional tactical and patrol teams to the area and is making concerted efforts to apprehend the perpetrators. Monitoring and security operations are ongoing.”
However, residents claimed the death toll may be higher, with about 10 people allegedly killed in coordinated attacks.
A farmer identified as Mbaane alleged that more than 300 armed men entered from the Wukari axis of neighbouring Taraba State.
“The people who carried out the attack were more than 300 and they were armed herdsmen who were alleged to have come from Wukari axis of Taraba State.
“They were shooting people and moving from one community to another. It was like a huge army of armed herdsmen who came just to kill without any provocation from their victims.
“We learnt that about 10 persons lost their lives and many others sustained injuries during the attack. Luckily, the army and police personnel engaged them and made efforts to repel them. Though they came in large numbers, the effort of the army helped to save the lives of many,” he said.
Governor Hyacinth Alia commended security agencies for their intervention and assured residents of continued support to protect lives and property.
Through his Chief Press Secretary, Tersoo Kula, Alia said suspected terrorists “masquerading as herdsmen” attacked residents of Mbaterem in Ayaba, Ikpur, Yina, Aboajio and Ukpen communities of Mbazun Ward.
He condoled with families of those killed and sympathised with the injured, while assuring security agencies of government support.
Alia warned against efforts to frustrate peace in the state, saying: “Benue lands for Benue people. Anyone who thinks attacking us will intimidate us to leave the land is making a mistake.”
He added: “I took an oath to protect our people, and I will not relent. I must appreciate the fact that the Federal Government is advancing a lot of support for us to tackle these acts of terrorism.”
The governor urged residents to stay alert and report suspicious movements, stressing that timely information could help prevent attacks.
“Like I always say, you must all remain vigilant and always ensure that you forward information on suspicious movements around you. This is the only way we can be able to effectively tackle these criminals,” he said.
Alia also directed security agencies to maintain their presence in key areas and confront what he called “enemies of the state” bent on undermining peace.
He assured residents that his administration would continue working to secure communities as security personnel track those responsible for the attacks.
