Two persons have been reportedly killed and several others displaced in fresh attacks on Turan District in Kwande Local Government Area of Benue State.
The incident occurred Wednesday when suspected armed herders launched an assault that began in Imande Avu (also referred to as Imande Avur) and extended to the neighboring communities of Abande and Mbaikyor.
The attack claimed the lives of two innocent farmers, Elder Abur Alam and his son Ikyaabashi also reported as Ikyaa, who were reportedly working on their farmland when they were targeted.
Residents said the invaders were Fulani insurgents who carried out the killings in a senseless act of violence that has left families devastated and villages abandoned.
Many residents have fled their homes in fear, joining the growing number of internally displaced persons in the region amid fears of further incursions.
A concerned resident identified as Kummeh Aondona MC Riskid, has appealed to Gov. Hyacinth Alia, for immediate intervention to protect vulnerable communities.
A former councillor in Kwande LGA, Mr. Lawrence Akerigba, confirmed the incident and expressed deep concern over the recurring violence in the area.
“Again, there was a brutal attack on our community yesterday. Two innocent farmers were killed, several people have been displaced, and fear has taken over the entire area.
“Communities in Turan have come under sustained attacks over the past two weeks, resulting in daily killings, destruction of livelihoods, and mass displacement of residents.
“Our people are being attacked and killed every day. It appears the government has forgotten about us. These attacks have become frequent, unchecked, and devastating,” he lamented.
He described the situation as a wake-up call, urging the government and security agencies to take immediate steps to halt the attacks, protect lives, and restore peace to the affected communities.
When contacted to confirm the incident,the Spokesperson of the Benue State Police Command , DSP Udeme Edet, said she is yet to receive information on the incident.
