Killing spree: Anger over herders’ deadly attacks in Ondo, Benue, Nasarawa, 30 killed

Residents of several communities in Ondo, Benue, Nasarawa and Edo states are reeling from deadly attacks by suspected armed herders, sparking widespread outrage and protests.

A total of 30 people were reportedly killed in the series of attacks across the three states, with communities calling for urgent government intervention.

Nine surveyors were reportedly kidnapped in Ondo, while two residents were abducted, and four others suffered gun and machete wounds in Edo.

In Ondo, enraged women took to the streets of Akure on Monday, following the abduction of nine surveyors and the killings of villagers in Akure North Local Government Area.

Armed assailants reportedly stormed the communities of Aba Alajido, Aba Sunday, Aba Pastor, and Ademekun, in the Akure North Local Government Area, at the weekend, leaving a trail of destruction and bloodshed.

Authorities have so far recovered at least 14 bodies, while search efforts continued, with a report that 20 villagers were killed.

In Benue, violent protests erupted in Naka, headquarters of Gwer West Local Government, after three members of the state’s Civil Protection Guards were ambushed and killed by suspected herders.

The discovery of their bodies early Tuesday sparked a rampage by angry youths, who torched the palace of the local traditional ruler and parts of the local government secretariat.

Governor Hyacinth Alia condemned the killings, urging security agencies to bring the perpetrators to justice while calling for restraint among residents.

In Nasarawa State, a communal clash in the Farin Dutse community escalated into a full-blown crisis, leaving at least seven people dead, including a pregnant woman.

The conflict, which began as a dispute between local farmers and herders, quickly spiralled out of control, with houses, shops, and vehicles set ablaze.

The police have, however, arrested two suspects in connection with the violence, with security patrols in the area to prevent further bloodshed.

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