Suspected herders kill farmers in Benue
Suspected herders have killed three farmers and a traveler in a fresh attack in Benue State, deepening fear and tension in affected communities. The incident reportedly occurred along a rural route where the victims were going about their daily activities before they were suddenly attacked by the assailants.
Residents said the three farmers were working on their farmland when the attackers stormed the area and opened fire. A traveler who was passing through the same route was also caught in the violence and killed on the spot. The assailants were said to have fled immediately after the attack, leaving the victims lifeless.
The killings have thrown nearby communities into mourning, as families of the victims struggle to come to terms with the loss. Many villagers have also expressed fear of returning to their farms, saying the repeated attacks have made life unsafe and uncertain. Agricultural activities in the area are already suffering as a result of the insecurity.
Security operatives have been deployed to the area to restore calm and track down those responsible for the attack. Local authorities have condemned the killings and assured residents that efforts are ongoing to arrest the perpetrators and prevent further violence.
Community leaders have renewed calls on the federal and state governments to strengthen security in rural areas, stressing that farmers can no longer work in safety under the current conditions. They warned that continued attacks could worsen food shortages and economic hardship.
