Unidentified gunmen reportedly killed at least 11 people in an attack on communities in Nyiev-ya, Kwande Local Government Area, Benue State.
The incident occurred on December 25 as residents were celebrating Christmas with their families.
A community member, speaking anonymously, confirmed the attack to reporters on Thursday, stating they had received a distress call indicating that Nyiev-ya was under siege.
“The terrorist herders attacked this afternoon (December 25), targeting Ubutu and GSS Anwase. They killed people and set houses ablaze,” a resident reported.
“They killed Daniel Jam’s son. Please pray for our community and for intervention from God and the government,” the resident added.
Meanwhile, another resident revealed that while the killings were happening in Tse Azege, a separate attack was also taking place in Ityuluv, within the Nyiev-ya community.
“If the chairman or the government can act, they need to do so urgently. The situation in Kwande remains dire,” the resident stated.
He added, “The terrorist herders have continued their attacks on our people today (December 26).”
Iorbee Ihagh, the President General of Mzough U Tiv Worldwide and a native of Kwande LGA, confirmed the attack through the local community leader. He described it as unprovoked, noting that several people were killed on Christmas Day.
Another resident, Solomon Amande, whose community was among those attacked, confirmed the deaths of 11 individuals, attributing the killings to armed herders and militia groups.
When contacted, the Benue State Police Public Relations Officer, Sewuese Anene, stated that she had no information regarding the incident.
