Violent Attacks in Benue State, Nigeria Kill Nearly 60 and Displace Thousands

Over recent weeks suspected armed Fulani herders launched coordinated assaults across the Idoma‑speaking Benue South region of Nigeria’s Middle Belt, concentrating on villages in the Otukpo Local Government Area. Communities such as Akpachi (Ugboju), Otukpo Nobi, Ondo and Ankpechi were stormed; at least 60 people were reported killed and many more injured while looters ransacked provision stores.

The attacks, which occurred both in daylight and at dawn, have forced thousands to abandon their homes, creating a humanitarian displacement crisis. Residents staged protests, bringing bodies to the palace of the Idoma paramount ruler to demand action.

Authorities and local leaders suggest the wave of violence may be retaliation for the June 26 killing of Alhaji Ardo Risku Mohammed, chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), and his associate. Security experts say the pattern indicates an organised campaign rather than isolated criminal incidents.