Rising death toll from armed attacks in Benue hits 224 in 55 days

As of May 25, 2025, the killing of the 42 people in the latest attack on Gwer West LGA brings the total number of deaths from armed invasions in Benue State between April 1 and May 25 to at least 224, all within a span of just 55 days.

Locals believe the actual figures may be higher due to unreported incidents in remote and hard-to-reach communities.

In the meantime, the Tiv and Idoma Area Traditional Councils have separately ordered herders in their domains to vacate their cattle from farmlands in order for farmers to resume agricultural activities.

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Barely 72-hours after the Tor Tiv, Prof James Ayatse’s led Tiv traditional council issued a 10-day ultimatum to herders to quit their areas, the Idoma Area traditional council and the nine Idoma local government council chairmen in Benue State have urged the state government to prevail on herders to vacate farmlands in order for farmers to resume agricultural activities.

The notice was contained in a communique signed by Adegbe Uloko Sunday, the Secretary, Idoma Area Traditional Council at the end of an emergency meeting of the Idoma Area Traditional Council and the Idoma Local Government Council Chairmen held at Och’Idoma’s Palace in Otukpo.

Meanwhile, Governor Alia has condemned the attacks on Tse-Orbiam and Ahume communities in Gwer West LGA, describing them as barbaric and unacceptable.

He also expressed sorrow over the shooting of Rev. Fr. Solomon Atongu by suspected herder militia along the Makurdi–Naka road.

In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Tersoo Kula, Governor Alia described the incident, which occurred just metres away from a military checkpoint, as a “Stark reminder of the lawlessness and insecurity plaguing the Makurdi-Naka axis.”

He directed security agencies to immediately go after the attackers and ensure the safe rescue of individuals kidnapped during the attack on Rev. Fr. Atongu.