At least 16 people have been reportedly killed after suspected armed herders attacked Nobi community in Otukpo Local Government Area of Benue State in the early hours of Sunday.
Residents said the attackers invaded the community between 3:00 a.m. and 4:30 a.m., opening fire and forcing people to flee. Several others were reportedly injured, while many remain unaccounted for.
The killings sparked protests by youths and women, who blocked major roads leading into Otukpo, including the Enugu–Otukpo and Makurdi–Otukpo routes, demanding urgent government intervention.
Reacting to the attack, Governor Hyacinth Alia condemned the killings as a barbaric assault on innocent lives and directed security agencies to intensify surveillance, work with neighbouring states, arrest the perpetrators and strengthen protection for vulnerable communities.
The governor also urged residents to remain vigilant and support security agencies with credible intelligence to prevent further attacks.
