A commercial bus driver in Makurdi, Benue State, was fatally shot on Thursday by unidentified assailants in the North Bank area of the town. The incident occurred near a roundabout on the Makurdi-Lafia Road, close to an old-generation bank, leaving passengers and bystanders in shock.

Eyewitnesses reported that the assailants, riding motorcycles, followed the bus from the North Bank park. As the driver slowed down to pick up passengers, he was shot in the head by one of the assailants, who then fled the scene.

“It happened so suddenly,” an eyewitness recounted. “After the shooting, the attackers sped away, and the passengers, visibly terrified, ran out of the bus, screaming and crying. The sound of gunshots caused panic, and everyone, including nearby traders, scattered in fear.”

As tensions rose, other commercial drivers and friends of the deceased gathered at the scene, leading to concerns of possible unrest. Security forces, including police and soldiers, quickly arrived to maintain order and secure the area.

The body of the deceased was later removed by security personnel, while the area was cordoned off.

Suspected Cult-Related Violence

While the motive for the killing remains unclear, sources suggest it could be linked to ongoing clashes between rival cult groups in the North Bank area. The region has reportedly seen a spate of cult-related attacks and killings in recent weeks, fueling suspicions that the incident may be tied to a supremacy battle.

Efforts to contact the Police Public Relations Officer, Superintendent Catherine Anene, for an official statement were unsuccessful at the time of this report. Investigations into the tragic incident are expected to continue.