By Sharon Njoku, Makurdi
Benue community attack: 15 villagers killed as suspected militia herdsmen invade otukpo area
At least 15 villagers have been killed and several others injured or reported missing following a deadly attack on a community in Otukpo Local Government Area of Benue State.
The attack, which occurred in the early hours of Tuesday, July 28, 2026, reportedly involved armed men identified by residents and local authorities as suspected militia herdsmen who stormed the community and opened fire on residents.
Sources from the area said the attackers invaded the village while many residents were still carrying out their morning activities, leaving several people dead and others wounded.
The affected community is located within the Idoma-speaking axis of Benue State’s Middle Belt region, an area that has witnessed recurring security challenges linked to farmer-herder conflicts and communal violence.
The Chairman of Otukpo Local Government Council, Maxwell Ogiri, is expected to coordinate with security agencies and community leaders as efforts continue to assess the situation and provide assistance to affected residents.
Following the attack, residents have expressed fear over their safety, with many calling on security authorities to strengthen protection measures and ensure the enforcement of laws aimed at preventing violent clashes.
Community leaders and residents are also urging the government to intensify security operations, address the root causes of recurring attacks, and provide urgent support to displaced families.
Security agencies are expected to conduct further investigations to identify the perpetrators and restore peace in the affected communities.
