At least nine individuals have been confirmed dead following a series of attacks by suspected armed herdsmen in the Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State. The assaults occurred late Friday night in the communities of Tse-Nyaku and Tse-Biliji, with reports indicating that several others were injured and a number of residents remain unaccounted for.

The attacks began around 11 PM, when the assailants invaded the communities in large numbers, firing indiscriminately and forcing many residents to flee their homes. A local source, who wished to remain anonymous, revealed that nine bodies had been recovered thus far, but expressed concern that the death toll could rise as many individuals are still missing.

"The attackers came in large numbers and started shooting in the communities. Luckily, many people managed to escape, except for the nine who have been confirmed dead for now because their corpses have been recovered," the source stated. Disturbingly, it was reported that one of the attackers was found in possession of the phone belonging to one of the victims, using it to make calls.

The aftermath of the violence has left the affected communities largely deserted, with residents expressing deep sorrow over the escalating insecurity in the region. The Sankera axis of Benue has increasingly become a focal point of violence, raising alarms about the safety of its inhabitants.

In response to the tragic events, Livinus Tyodoo, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate for the Ukum I (Ngenev) State Constituency, condemned the attacks as “one attack too many.” In a statement, he emphasized the need for immediate and decisive action from the authorities to prevent further violence and ensure the safety of the local population.

Tyodoo criticized the ongoing persecution of innocent citizens in their ancestral homes, asserting that the people of Ukum I deserve to live without fear and to engage in their livelihoods peacefully. He called on the Benue State Government, the Ukum Local Government Council, and security agencies to enhance security measures in the affected areas.

He urged the government to move beyond mere statements and investigations, advocating for effective intelligence gathering, proactive security deployments, and the prosecution of those responsible for the violence. "The protection of lives and property is a fundamental responsibility of government, and the people of Ukum deserve nothing less," he stated.

Tyodoo extended his condolences to the families of those who lost their lives and called for prayers for the safe return of the missing individuals and the quick recovery of the injured. He concluded with a plea for peace in the region, emphasizing the urgent need for action to restore safety and security in Ngenev, Ukum, and across Benue State.

As of now, the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Peter Aondongu, has stated that he has not yet received any reports regarding the attacks, highlighting a potential gap in communication and response from local law enforcement.