Tragedy struck on Wednesday, December 25, 2024, as suspected herdsmen invaded Ityuluv, Tse Azege, and Innyiev ya communities in the Mkomon district of Kwande Local Government Area, Benue State, killing at least 11 people and leaving several others missing.
Attack During Christmas Festivities
Residents of the affected communities were celebrating the Christmas season when the assailants reportedly stormed the area. According to a resident identified as Terlumun, the attackers not only claimed lives but also burned houses, leaving the communities in disarray.
“The terrorist herders came this afternoon (Wednesday) when the people were celebrating Christmas and invaded our communities, killing and burning houses,” Terlumun narrated.
Confirmation from Community Leaders
The President-General of the Tiv socio-cultural group, Mdzough U Tiv Worldwide, Iorbee Ihagh, confirmed the attack in a telephone conversation. Ihagh expressed deep sorrow over the incident and emphasized the severity of the situation.
“Eleven people were killed in the Christmas Day attack on Mkomon district of Turan in Kwande LG. Some are still missing as I speak to you now,” he said.
He further disclosed that some council wards, especially Moon council ward, had long been under siege by herdsmen. Ihagh called on Governor Hyacinth Alia and President Bola Tinubu to strengthen security in the state to protect its citizens.
Government and Security Officials Respond
Joseph Har, the Security Adviser on Internal Affairs and Security to the Benue State Governor, confirmed the attack but referred inquiries to the Director-General on Security, Gbamuam Jacob, for further details. However, efforts to reach Jacob were unsuccessful as his phone was unavailable at the time of this report.
Meanwhile, the spokesperson for the Benue State Police Command, Catherine Anene, stated that she had not yet received reports about the incident.
Call for Immediate Action
The incident has once again highlighted the persistent insecurity in Benue State, particularly in areas frequently targeted by suspected herdsmen. Ihagh and other community leaders have reiterated their call for increased security measures, urging state and federal authorities to act swiftly to prevent further attacks.
A History of Insecurity
The latest attack is not an isolated event but part of a series of violent incidents that have plagued Kwande Local Government Area and other parts of Benue State. Moon council ward, mentioned by Ihagh, has reportedly been under siege for an extended period, displacing residents and creating a humanitarian crisis.
Residents Demand Justice
Amidst the chaos, the affected communities are demanding justice and protection. With lives lost and properties destroyed during what should have been a festive season, the call for effective security interventions has grown louder.
As investigations and efforts to provide aid continue, the residents of Ityuluv, Tse Azege, and Innyiev ya communities await concrete action to ensure their safety and prevent further loss of life.
