Tragedy struck in Tse Ugema Chul, Mbakesa, Ugbaam, Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State, as suspected Fulani herdsmen launched a deadly attack on the village, leaving at least six people dead and several others missing.
According to eyewitness accounts, the violence erupted when local youth, alarmed by the increasing presence of herdsmen in Ugbaam, attempted to defend their community. One of them, Adeke Michael, had earlier expressed concerns about the influx of herdsmen on his Facebook page. In a desperate bid for self-defense, the villagers armed themselves with sticks and stones, chasing the invaders towards a nearby stream known as Kafe.
However, unknown to the youth, the attackers had strategically stationed armed men in the area. As the villagers approached the stream, over 50 armed assailants emerged from the surrounding bushes, wielding guns, machetes, and other deadly weapons. The unsuspecting defenders were swiftly overpowered, resulting in multiple fatalities.
So far, six lifeless bodies have been recovered, but the exact number of casualties remains uncertain as many villagers are still missing. Residents fear the death toll could rise as search efforts continue.
A source revealed that during the attack, a concerned member of the community placed a distress call to soldiers stationed at Wuaze, just a few meters away from the scene. However, upon nearing the location and spotting the armed herdsmen, the soldiers reportedly turned back to their camp instead of intervening.
Tse Ugema village, located just a few kilometers from the famous Zaki Biam International Yam Market, is the latest to suffer from relentless attacks by armed herdsmen. The incident has once again raised concerns over the worsening security situation in Benue State, particularly in rural communities vulnerable to such invasions.
Residents are calling on the Benue State Government and security agencies to take urgent action to protect lives and property. Many fear that without decisive intervention, the cycle of violence will continue, leaving more communities devastated.
