Benue Governor Reveals Herdsmen Came From Abroad, Acknowledges 59 Casualties

Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State has confirmed that 59 people were killed in an attack on Yelewata, a border community between Benue and Nasarawa states, allegedly carried out by suspected herdsmen.

During a press briefing at the Government House on Sunday, Alia revealed that the death toll was established through a headcount conducted by security agencies in collaboration with the victims’ families. Among the casualties were personnel from the military and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), who died while defending the community.

Governor Alia disclosed that the suspected attackers entered Benue from neighboring Nasarawa State. He also acknowledged the support of Nasarawa Governor Abdullahi Sule, who reportedly provided intelligence regarding the invasion. Alia added that one woman was killed on the Nasarawa side during the incident.

The casualty figures were made public while Alia received a report from the panel investigating militia activities in the Sankera axis. He promised to forward the findings to relevant authorities and pledged to investigate those named in the report, with a view to restoring peace.

Pope Leo XIV Condemns Massacre, Offers Prayers

Reacting to the killings, Pope Leo XIV described the incident as a “terrible massacre,” stating that most of the victims were displaced civilians brutally murdered. During his remarks ahead of Sunday’s Angelus prayer at the Vatican, the Pope expressed deep concern about ongoing violence in Nigeria and offered prayers for security, justice, and peace to prevail.

He made special mention of Benue’s rural Christian communities, who he said have been relentlessly targeted by violence.

Protests Erupt in Makurdi

Meanwhile, outraged youths took to the streets of Makurdi early Sunday to protest the killings. Gathering at the Wurukum food basket roundabout, demonstrators demanded swift and decisive government action.

They were later joined by popular social media activist Martin Otse, also known as VeryDarkMan, who has consistently used his platform to speak out on Nigeria’s worsening security situation.