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At least six people were reportedly killed in a renewed attack by suspected armed herdsmen on Ayilomo, a community in the Logo Local Government Area (LGA) of Benue State.
Sources said the attack began on Friday evening and continued into Saturday, just two days after a similar assault in Anyiin, another community in the same LGA, where over 15 lives were lost.
According to a local source who spoke on condition of anonymity, the violence began around 6 p.m. on Friday when suspected herdsmen entered Ayilomo from neighboring Taraba State and began shooting at residents, most of whom are farmers. “The people had just returned from their farms when the attackers stormed the community and opened fire,” he said.
Panic ensued as villagers fled their homes. Security forces, including the military and police, arrived to confront the attackers, who eventually retreated. However, three people were killed and many others injured in the initial assault.
The attackers returned on Saturday afternoon in greater numbers, wreaking havoc by shooting and setting homes ablaze. This second assault claimed three more lives, and the Ayilomo Police Station was also damaged.
“The farming community is now deserted, with residents fleeing to neighboring areas in search of safety,” the source added. “The situation is dire, especially for women and children, who are urgently in need of assistance.”
Clement Ukav, Chairman of Logo Local Government Council, confirmed the incident and assured that efforts are underway to halt the attacks.
Attempts to reach the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Catherine Anene, for further confirmation were unsuccessful.
Pascal Arogorn Ibe
