Two dead, several injured in fresh attack by suspected herdsmen in Mbamar, Benue state

By Benedicta Aboh

Two persons have been confirmed dead following a fresh attack by suspected armed herdsmen in Mbamar community, near the railway line in Dudu area of Guma Local Government Area, Benue State.

The attack also left several people injured, while some remain missing and unaccounted for.

A resident of the community, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the victims were among a group of displaced persons visiting their ancestral home when the assailants struck.

“They were displaced persons who went to see their family land in Mbamar when the armed herders suddenly attacked them. Two of them were killed on the spot, some people managed to escape with injuries, while others are still missing as we speak,” the resident said.

One of the deceased has been identified as Ortwer Tyonum, while the identity of the second victim is yet to be officially confirmed. A young boy who was with the group narrowly escaped the attack without injuries.

The source lamented the lack of security presence in the area, saying it has allowed such attacks to occur repeatedly.

“There is no security here. That is why these attacks keep happening. People are afraid to go to their farms or even visit their homes,” he said.

He also revealed that farmlands across Mbamar, Dudu, and surrounding villages had been destroyed by the marauders, worsening hunger and economic hardship in the area.

“Our crops have been destroyed, and many farmers can no longer access their land. This is affecting our survival and livelihood,” he added.

Residents of the community are calling on the Benue State Government and security agencies to urgently deploy personnel to prevent further attacks.

Efforts to reach the Police Public Relations Officer, Deputy Superintendent Udeme Edet, for comment were unsuccessful at the time of filing this report.