More than 100 cattle reportedly belonging to suspected armed Fulani herdsmen died while attempting to cross the River Benue into Nasarawa State on Saturday.
The animals were said to have either drowned or been buried alive when eroded soil collapsed on them near the riverbank. Eyewitnesses described the incident as unusual and troubling.
Mr. Olikita Ekani, who witnessed the scene while returning from his farm, said he saw numerous dead cows floating in the river opposite Achepe village in Nasarawa State.
“I saw several Fulani herdsmen in a rush, trying to cross back into Nasarawa. Fishermen helping them told me they’ve been moving in large numbers for over a week now, which often signals upcoming attacks,” Ekani said.
He added that over 100 cattle have died during the crossings in recent days.
A fisherman, who requested anonymity, confirmed that 64 cattle died on Saturday alone.
“Many were crushed by collapsing soil as they neared land, while others drowned mid-swim. We’ve never seen anything like this,” he said.
He also listed key entry and exit routes used by the herders, including Abugbe to Odenyi, Ocholonya to Akpekpo, Achukpa to Ijiwo, and Oleg’Ada’Gomowe to Achepe.
Efforts to reach the Benue State Police spokesperson, DSP Udeme Edet, for confirmation were unsuccessful at the time of filing this report.
