At least 17 people are feared dead after gunmen launched a fresh attack on a community in Benue State during Easter celebrations.
The incident occurred in Mbalom, located in Gwer East Local Government Area, on Sunday, April 5, as residents marked the holiday.
Eyewitnesses said the attackers stormed the village unexpectedly and opened fire on locals. Several homes were also set ablaze, forcing residents to flee into nearby bushes for safety.
Many individuals are still missing, with search efforts ongoing. A resident described the situation as devastating, noting that victims were caught completely off guard.
The attack has once again highlighted persistent security challenges in parts of the state, particularly in rural farming communities.
Reacting to the incident, Governor Hyacinth Alia condemned the killings, calling them “heinous” and unacceptable. In a statement issued through his Chief Press Secretary, Tersoo Kula, he expressed condolences to affected families and assured that those responsible would be brought to justice.
The governor also pointed to a pattern of targeted violence in the region and pledged to strengthen security measures. He commended security agencies for their response and urged them to intensify efforts to apprehend the perpetrators.
Mbalom has previously witnessed similar violence. In April 2018, suspected herders attacked a Catholic church in the community, killing two priests and several worshippers during a service.
Sunday’s incident mirrors that earlier tragedy, with reports of killings, destruction of property, and displacement of residents.
Authorities say investigations are ongoing, while security forces have begun operations to track down those behind the attack.
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