At least 17 people have been reported dead following a fresh attack on a community in Benue State.
The incident happened in Mbalom, Gwer East Local Government Area, on Sunday, April 5. the same day residents were observing Easter, Premium Times reported.
According to local accounts, gunmen stormed the community without warning and opened fire on villagers.
Residents said the attackers also set houses on fire, forcing many people to flee into nearby bushes for safety.
Several people are still reported missing as search efforts continue.
“This is heartbreaking. People were caught unawares. Many are still missing,” a resident said.
The attack has once again raised concerns about the recurring violence in parts of Benue, especially in rural farming communities.
Reacting to the incident, Governor Hyacinth Alia condemned the killings, describing the attack as “heinous” and unacceptable.
In a statement issued through his Chief Press Secretary, Tersoo Kula, the governor expressed sympathy to the affected families and assured residents that those responsible would be pursued.
He also pointed to what he described as a pattern of targeted attacks in some parts of the state and promised stronger security measures.
The governor commended security agencies for their response so far and urged them to intensify efforts to apprehend the attackers.
This is not the first time Mbalom has experienced such violence.
In April 2018, suspected herders attacked a Catholic church in the same community, killing two priests and several others during a morning service.
Sunday’s incident mirrors that earlier attack, with reports of killings, destruction of property, and displacement of residents.
Across Benue State, repeated attacks like this continue to disrupt lives and livelihoods, especially for communities that depend on farming.
Authorities say investigations are ongoing, while security operatives have begun efforts to track down those behind the attack.