In a tragic incident on December 25, 2024, suspected herdsmen attacked several communities in Benue State, killing at least 11 people. The attack targeted Ityuluv, Tse Azege, and Innyiev Ya communities in the Mkomon district of Kwande Local Government Area while residents were celebrating Christmas. Eyewitnesses report that the attackers stormed the villages, burning homes and killing people in the process.
Residents Describe the Horrifying Attack
A resident of the affected area, Terlumun, described the assault, explaining that the herders arrived in the afternoon, when families were celebrating the festive season. “The terrorists came this afternoon and attacked us while we were celebrating Christmas,” Terlumun said. “They killed people and burned down our homes.” Many are still missing, and the community remains in shock after the unexpected violence during what should have been a time of peace and joy.
Tiv Socio-Cultural Leader Confirms the Attack
Iorbee Ihagh, the President-General of the Tiv socio-cultural group, Mdzough U Tiv Worldwide, confirmed the incident during a phone conversation. Ihagh stated that the attack had resulted in the deaths of 11 people, with some still unaccounted for. He also highlighted that similar attacks by the Fulani herdsmen have been frequent in certain council wards, particularly the Moon council ward, which has been completely displaced by the violence.
Calls for Increased Security in Benue
Ihagh has called on both the state and federal governments, including Governor Hyacinth Alia and President Bola Tinubu, to step up security measures in the state. The Tiv leader stressed that security forces must intensify their efforts to protect residents, particularly as herdsmen continue to cause widespread fear and displacement in the region. Local authorities have yet to provide a full response to the crisis, but calls for action continue to grow.
Government Officials Respond to the Attack
Joseph Har, the governor’s Security Adviser on Internal Affairs and Security, confirmed the attack but declined further comments. He directed reporters to the Director-General on Security, Gbamuam Jacob, for further information. However, efforts to reach Jacob were unsuccessful as his phone lines remained unavailable.
2023 Christmas Attack in Jos Echoed in Benue
The recent Christmas Day attack in Benue bears a stark resemblance to the 2023 attack on Jos, where similar incidents of violence marred the festive period. Both attacks have raised serious concerns about the increasing security challenges in Nigeria’s middle-belt and northern regions. As citizens continue to mourn the loss of their loved ones, the need for stronger, more effective security responses to curb these attacks has never been more urgent.
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