A devastating attack by suspected armed herdsmen on the Yelewata community in Guma Local Government Area of Benue State has left a family reeling in grief. Prince Aondona Isaka Ornguga lost 23 family members in the attack, which claimed the lives of over 107 people.
Details of the Attack
- The attack occurred on Friday night and spanned into the early hours of Saturday, with attackers dousing roadside stalls and makeshift shelters with petrol before setting them ablaze.
- Many victims were internally displaced persons (IDPs) who had sought refuge in Yelewata, believing it to be safer due to nearby security checkpoints.
- The attackers reportedly came in two groups, overwhelming local youth and police who attempted to resist.
Impact on Families
- Ornguga, a former Senior Special Assistant to ex-Governor Samuel Ortom on Local Government Administration, lost 23 family members, including his cousins, Victor Utim and Mathew Iormba.
- Another resident, Tsegba Gbam Ayua, lost his wife and four children, who were burned to ashes inside market stalls where they were sleeping.
Reactions and Response
- Governor Hyacinth Alia condemned the attacks, assuring that the state government is working to strengthen security interventions and provide lasting solutions.
- President Bola Ahmed Tinubu directed security chiefs to implement his earlier directive to bring lasting peace and security to Benue State.
- The Force Commander of Joint Task Force Operation WHIRL STROKE (OPWS), Major General Moses Gara, vowed to pursue the perpetrators and ensure they face justice ¹ ².
