At least 17 people have been reportedly killed on Easter Sunday following a fresh attack on a community in Mbalom, Gwer East Local Government Area of Benue State
According to local accounts, gunmen stormed the community without warning and opened fire on villagers.
Residents said the attackers also set houses on fire, forcing many people to flee into nearby bushes for safety.
Several people are still reported missing as search efforts continue.
“This is heartbreaking. People were caught unawares. Many are still missing,” a resident said.
The attack has once again raised concerns about the recurring violence in parts of Benue, especially in rural farming communities.
Reacting to the incident, Governor Hyacinth Alia condemned the killings, describing the attack as “heinous” and unacceptable.
In a statement issued through his Chief Press Secretary, Tersoo Kula, the governor expressed sympathy to the affected families and assured residents that those responsible would be pursued.
He also pointed to what he described as a pattern of targeted attacks in some parts of the state and promised stronger security measures.
The governor commended security agencies for their response so far and urged them to intensify efforts to apprehend the attackers.
Authorities say investigations are ongoing, while security operatives have begun efforts to track down those behind the attack.
