Benue Horror: 50 Dead In Brutal Clash Between Militant Groups

Benue Horror: 50 Dead In Brutal Clash Between Militant Groups....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

In Makurdi, the Gbagir community in Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State witnessed a tragic incident on Tuesday, where an estimated 50 individuals, including a family of seven, are feared dead. The violence unfolded as suspected armed Fulani militia, supported by local Tiv bandits, clashed with another Tiv militia gang in an attempt to oust them from the area……….CONTINUE READING

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Reports indicate that the conflict primarily involved rival militia factions, resulting in casualties among their members. Additionally, around 12 innocent farmers became unintended victims of the crossfire, leading to injuries for over 30 individuals, with several others declared missing.

The unrest reportedly originated from the kidnapping of Alhaji Gana, a Fulani militia leader, and his family by a Tiv militia leader in Ukum LGA. The abductor demanded a ransom of N100 million but accepted N5 million and subsequently killed the hostages. Outraged by this act, the Fulani militia in Taraba State formed an alliance with a Tiv militia group from Ukum to eliminate the rival gang responsible for Alhaji Gana’s death.

The conflict escalated, resulting in a large-scale movement of armed militia forces into the Gbagir community. The intervention of the military, particularly Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS), prevented the situation from further endangering innocent residents of Ukum LGA. However, concerns persist as over 1,000 armed individuals are reportedly still present in the region, with the potential to cause harm to local communities.

The timely response of Governor Hyacinth Alia, who alerted the military upon receiving information about the impending violence, is credited with preventing a more extensive tragedy. Nevertheless, there is an urgent plea for increased security measures, including fortified military presence, in Benue and Taraba border communities to curb the activities of cross-border criminal elements.

The lawmaker representing Ukum state constituency, Ezra Nyiyongo, confirmed the deaths and reported that 20 corpses had been recovered. The Force Commander of OPWS, Major General Sunday Igbinomwanhia, acknowledged the militia conflict but emphasized that the military’s presence aims to protect innocent civilians.

In response to the Benue killings, the National Assembly expressed deep concern and resolved to meet with President Bola Tinubu to address the pervasive security challenges in the country. The Senate called for urgent action by the service chiefs to deploy security personnel to affected areas and review the security architecture. Additionally, they advocated for investments in surveillance technology and equipment to detect and prevent future attacks. The House of Representatives similarly called for sustained pressure on criminals in Katsina State and urgent humanitarian assistance to affected communities.

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