In yet another violent outbreak in Benue State, at least four Mobile Policemen have been reportedly killed following a deadly Sunday afternoon attack by armed herders on Udei community, located in Guma Local Government Area (LGA).

The assault, which occurred around 11 a.m. on June 29, escalated fears of renewed insecurity in the area, just two weeks after a similar attack in Yelewata, a nearby community, claimed over 200 lives.

Coordinated Attacks Across Multiple Communities

According to eyewitnesses and community leaders, the attackers first stormed the Asha community, firing sporadically to chase farmers away from their lands. The assault quickly spread to Ortese, a community sheltering thousands of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs).

Security sources revealed that a joint team of military forces and local vigilantes engaged the assailants in a gun battle in the bush, preventing them from overrunning Ortese. However, the violence continued into the afternoon.

By 2 p.m., the attackers launched a second wave on Udei, killing four Mobile Policemen in a fierce shootout.

“They are still hovering around Ortese as I speak. People are terrified. Even the IDPs are calling for more security,” said Mr. Matthew Mnyan, a local leader and former Acting Chairman of the Benue State Universal Basic Education Board.

Military Response and Growing Fear

Reports indicate that the Nigerian military deployed armoured vehicles and engaged the attackers for nearly an hour in the bush. Despite this, the attackers regrouped and attempted to breach Daudu, another nearby community, but were repelled.

Mr. Mnyan confirmed alerting the Divisional Police Officer (DPO), who immediately mobilised officers to counter the Udei assault. The Area Commander was also reported to have mobilised reinforcements to the area.

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• “The attack appears coordinated. As evening falls, fear is spreading. The security situation is extremely tense,” he added.

Police Remain Silent as Tensions Escalate

As of the time of filing this report, efforts to reach the Benue State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Udeme Edet, were unsuccessful. She neither picked up calls nor responded to text messages.

This fresh attack further amplifies concerns about the growing menace of armed herders in Benue’s farming communities, where repeated invasions have left hundreds dead, many injured, and thousands displaced.

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