An overnight assault by suspected armed herdsmen on Mbasombo village in Gwer East Local Government Area of Benue State has left at least three people dead.
The incident, which occurred around 11 p.m. on Wednesday, took place just a few minutes away from the state capital, Makurdi.
The attackers reportedly opened fire on residents, injuring many and setting several homes ablaze. Some community members are still missing.
A resident of the area and petty trader, Atumegh Ahemga, who narrowly escaped, described the scene as chaotic and terrifying.
He said the attackers stormed the village, shooting randomly and torching homes.
“Everyone was asleep when the gunshots started. People ran in all directions trying to escape. They were shooting at anyone they saw. It was a nightmare,” he said.
According to him, the attack lasted over an hour, and no security operatives showed up during the incident. “We still don’t know what triggered this attack. It was completely unexpected, and many people are still in shock,” he added.
Gwer East Local Government Chairman, Timothy Adi, confirmed that three people were killed, noting that peace had returned to the area following the attack.
The Police Public Relations Officer in Benue State, Catherine Anene, also confirmed the incident and said that additional security personnel had been deployed to the community.