By Ayomide Otitoju
No fewer than nine persons have been reportedly killed following an attack by suspected herdsmen in Ankpali Edikwu ward, Apa Local Government Area of Benue State.
The incident, which occurred on Sunday evening, was said to have left residents in panic as gunmen allegedly stormed the community and opened fire indiscriminately.
A community leader, Bernard Ekah, said the attackers shot at residents on sight, resulting in multiple fatalities and widespread displacement, as many fled the area over fears of further attacks.
He noted that the community had suffered a similar assault in the past year, adding that residents were still recovering from the earlier incident before the latest violence.
Governor Hyacinth Alia condemned the attack and directed security agencies to intensify operations to flush out criminal elements from forested areas across the state.
In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, the governor ordered coordinated operations targeting suspected armed groups operating in parts of the state, including Apa and other affected local government areas.
The attack adds to a series of violent incidents in Benue, including a recent deadly assault on Mbalom community in Gwer East Local Government Area.
The Nigeria Police Force acknowledged ongoing security challenges in parts of the state but did not confirm details of the latest incident. The command, however, said it has intensified deployment of tactical teams and ongoing operations aimed at restoring normalcy.
Police authorities also cautioned against the spread of unverified information and warned individuals involved in cattle rustling or related activities that they would face legal consequences.
Security agencies said efforts are ongoing to curb violence, recover illegal arms, and strengthen security presence in affected communities.
