In yet another gruesome assault, suspected armed herdsmen have stormed Ayin community in Benue State, unleashing terror on villagers and leaving an unconfirmed number of casualties. The latest attack, which occurred late Thursday night, comes just days after 16 farmers were ambushed and slaughtered in the state.
According to reports from SaharaReporters, the assailants infiltrated the village under the cover of darkness, mercilessly attacking residents. A local source disclosed, “Suspected armed herdsmen came to Ayin last night and attacked our people again. This attack claimed multiple lives, and we are still recovering corpses from the bush.”
The source further alleged that traditional rulers are attempting to downplay the gravity of the situation to prevent tensions from escalating.
Benue State has been a recurring target of violent invasions by suspected herdsmen, leading to the deaths of over 5,000 people in recent years. The latest bloodbath follows the brutal murder of 16 farmers on Monday along Kashimbila Road. The victims, who were returning to Mbandwa ward after a day’s work, were ambushed, executed, and their bodies dumped in a river by the assailants.
Amid the deteriorating security situation, the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has taken a drastic step by withdrawing all corps members from Mbaa community in Kwande Local Government Area. The decision, according to NYSC’s Assistant Director of Information and Public Relations in Benue, Yahuza Adamu, was prompted by persistent and escalating violence in the region.
“Since the incessant attacks on Mbaa Community, which shares a border with Cameroon, NYSC has withdrawn all corps members and has not posted any back till date,” Adamu stated. He further revealed that over 20 individuals, including 16 farmers, had been slaughtered in the area, with their bodies discovered floating in River Katsina Ala.
Reassuring anxious parents and guardians, Adamu affirmed that NYSC remains committed to the safety of its members. “A headcount conducted by the Kwande Local Government Inspector confirmed that all corps members are safe and accounted for. Those serving in Jato Acka Turan, which is far from the affected areas, are not under any security threat,” he emphasized.
The unrelenting wave of bloodshed in Benue State has reignited concerns about the government’s ability to protect lives and property. As communities continue to suffer relentless attacks, urgent intervention is needed to curb the menace and restore lasting peace.
Will the authorities take decisive action, or will Benue remain a killing field?
PIONEER NEWS 