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At least 10 people have been reportedly killed in the early hours of Wednesday when armed invaders attacked Saai community in Mbajir Ward of Katsina-Ala Local Government Area of Benue State.
Locals said that at least 10 bodies have been recovered with the exact number of casualties yet to be officially confirmed.
A resident, who declined his name on print, told our correspondent on telephone that the attackers invaded the community after midnight and started firing gunshots sporadically.
The resident said that people already fast asleep were awoken by the sound of gunshots and began to scamper for safety.
“Some were wounded from the gunshots while others including Mchiaga Akaa Agbondo were killed and macheted beyond recognition.
“Many victims are now receiving treatment at NKST hospital, Saai. But the atmosphere remains tense,” the resident narrated.
Chairman of Katsina-Ala LGA, Justine Shaku, who confirmed the incident to journalists in Makurdi, however, said he had just arrived in Saai community to assess the situation.
Shaku said tension was still high in the community and promised to provide more details after his assessment.
He added that the casualty figure had yet to be confirmed at the time of his arrival to the scene.
Reacting to the incident, Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, condemned the attack, describing it as a senseless and cowardly assault on innocent citizens.
In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Tersoo Kula, the governor alleged that the attackers were terrorists masquerading as herdsmen and said the attack was aimed at disrupting farming activities and food production in the state.
“These enemies of progress have chosen to disrupt the peace and food security of our state by targeting the moment when crops are developing and the hope for a bountiful harvest is high,” Alia said.
He extended condolences to families of those killed and wished the injured a speedy recovery, assuring residents that his administration remained committed to protecting lives and property.
The governor directed security agencies to deploy additional personnel to Saai and neighbouring communities, launch a manhunt for the perpetrators, and ensure adequate protection for farmers across the area.
He also appealed to residents to remain calm but vigilant and report suspicious movements to security agencies.
Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), DSP Udeme Edet, however, had yet to respond to calls or messages put through her telephone at the time of filing this report.
