Tragedy in Benue: Innocent Lives Lost as Herdsmen Attacks Escalate—Citizens Cry Out for Government Action
By:marcy, Investigative Journalist | June 16, 2025
Benue State, Nigeria – Once again, the people of Benue are mourning. In yet another heartbreaking turn of events, several innocent lives have been lost following a deadly attack believed to be carried out by suspected herdsmen in parts of the state. The attack, which occurred late Sunday evening, left a trail of blood, destruction, and unanswered questions in its wake.
Residents of affected communities described the incident as a night of horror. According to eyewitness accounts, the assailants stormed the area under the cover of darkness, opening fire indiscriminately and setting homes ablaze. Among the victims were women, children, and elderly citizens who were caught off-guard and had no means of escape.
Local vigilante groups and community leaders have been overwhelmed, calling on the state and federal governments for urgent intervention before more lives are lost.
“We are tired of crying. We are tired of burying our loved ones every week. What have we done to deserve this?” said Mr. Titus Aondofa, a youth leader in Guma Local Government Area. “Our government must rise and do something fast. We are not animals. We are human beings, and we deserve protection.”
This is not the first time Benue has suffered such attacks. The state, widely known as the “Food Basket of the Nation,” has been a hotbed of deadly conflicts between armed herders and farming communities. Despite repeated calls from civil society groups, religious leaders, and international observers, concrete government action appears lacking or ineffective.
Governor Hyacinth Alia, in a brief statement released this morning, condemned the killings and described them as barbaric and unacceptable. “The perpetrators of this heinous act will be brought to justice,” he assured. But for the bereaved families, words offer little comfort as the body count rises and hope dims.
Community leaders and activists are demanding:
- Immediate deployment of military forces to the worst-hit regions for peacekeeping and protection.
- Full investigation into the recent killings and prosecution of those responsible.
- Compensation and support for displaced families who have lost everything.
- Long-term security solutions that will put an end to the endless bloodshed.
As displaced families seek refuge in overcrowded IDP camps and makeshift shelters, humanitarian needs are surging. Children are left without parents, schools have shut down, and farming activities are at a standstill due to fear.
“We are crying out to the President, to the National Assembly, to anyone who can hear us. Benue is bleeding. Save our souls,” pleaded Mrs. Akev Martha, a teacher and mother of four who lost her husband in the attack.
For now, the people of Benue wait—with grief in their hearts and fear in their eyes—hoping that someone, somewhere in power, will hear their cry and act before the next attack comes.
