Fulani herders attack Benue community, prompting evacuations and protests

On Tuesday, suspected armed Fulani herders stormed the Ondo community in Ugboju, Otukpo Local Government Area of Benue State, Nigeria, opening fire and forcing residents to flee into the bush and neighbouring settlements. The assault came just 48 hours after killings in nearby villages, intensifying fears of a renewed wave of violence.

Local Labour Party House of Assembly candidate Jimmy Nart warned residents via a message that the attackers were “currently attacking Ondo, Ugboju” and urged people to protect themselves. While exact casualty numbers remain unverified, reports describe victims lying in pools of blood and a protest that blocked the Otukpo‑Agatu road with burning tyres.

Governor Hyacinth Alia condemned the incident and ordered intensified surveillance and deployment of security forces to vulnerable communities. The Benue State police chief confirmed the assault was a terrorist attack and pledged cooperation with neighbouring states to apprehend the perpetrators.