At least nine people were killed in a brutal attack by suspected armed herdsmen on Agena community in Gwer East Local Government Area of Benue State. The attack, which occurred early morning on Sunday, has been condemned by Governor Hyacinth Alia, who described it as “barbaric and unacceptable”. The governor has assured residents of the government’s commitment to their safety and urged citizens to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies.

The attack has left several residents missing, and many houses and the community market were set ablaze. Security operatives, including the military, police, and civil defence personnel, have been deployed to the area to prevent further attacks.

This incident is part of a series of violent attacks by herdsmen in Benue State, which has led to concerns over persistent farmer-herder clashes and banditry in Nigeria’s Middle Belt.