Suspected Armed Herdsmen Launch Fresh Attack on Benue Community

Residents of Ondo community in Ugboju, Otukpo Local Government Area of Benue State, fled their homes on Tuesday morning after suspected armed herdsmen reportedly launched a fresh attack on the community.

According to residents, the attackers stormed the area in the early hours of the day and opened fire, triggering panic as families ran to safety.

The latest incident comes less than 48 hours after a deadly attack on Otukpo-Nobi community, also in Otukpo Local Government Area, where at least 18 people were reported killed.

A native of the community and the Labour Party's candidate for the Benue State House of Assembly in the 2027 elections, Hon. Jimmy Nart, confirmed the attack, saying the assault was still ongoing when he alerted residents.

In a message circulated during the incident, Nart urged people to take immediate precautions.

"I just received information from my family that Fulani terrorists are currently attacking Ondo, Ugboju. Protect yourself," he wrote.

As of the time of filing this report, the number of casualties and the extent of damage caused by the latest attack had not been independently confirmed.

Residents described the security situation as tense, with many families abandoning their homes over fears of further violence.

Efforts to obtain an official response from the Benue State Police Command were unsuccessful.

The Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Udeme Edet, did not respond to phone calls or a text message seeking confirmation of the incident.

Authorities had yet to issue an official statement as residents continued to express concern over the recurring attacks in parts of Otukpo Local Government Area.

The latest assault is expected to heighten concerns over the deteriorating security situation in Benue State, where communities have repeatedly come under attack, prompting renewed calls for stronger security measures to protect lives and property.