At least two people, including a pastor, were killed in a fresh attack on rural communities in Benue State, police and residents say, as suspected armed herders stormed villages in Apa Local Government Area.
According to eyewitness accounts, the assault occurred on Sunday afternoon in Edikwu Icho, Ole-Gijamu and Ukpogo communities, where gunmen opened fire, catching residents off guard. A pastor who was returning from church was among those killed, while another man, identified locally, was shot dead at close range during the ambush.
Residents also reported that the attackers struck again early Monday in Oiji, but local youths — with support from security personnel — managed to repel them before further casualties occurred. Some women were reportedly raped during the attacks, and several injured victims were taken to a hospital for treatment.
Confirming the violence, the Chairman of Apa Local Government Area, Adams Ocheiga, said the victims were ambushed at Edikwu Ward 11, and that efforts were ongoing with security agencies to restore calm and prevent further attacks.
The incident adds to a worrying pattern of violence in parts of Benue, where farming communities have faced repeated raids in recent weeks, prompting fears and calls for stronger protection from authorities.
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