Over 100 Killed in Gunmen Attack in Benue State, Nigeria
At least 100 people have been killed following an overnight attack by gunmen in Yelwata, a town in Benue State, north-central Nigeria, Amnesty International reported. The assault which lasted from late Friday into Saturday morning has sparked outrage amid ongoing violence in the region.
Amnesty International condemned the escalation of attacks across Benue highlighting that gunmen operate with impunity causing mass displacement and threatening food security as many victims are farmers. The rights group urged the Nigerian government to take immediate action to end the bloodshed which has resulted in numerous deaths and missing persons.
Tersoo Kula, spokesperson for the state governor’s office stated that the attack lasted about two hours with several houses burned. He confirmed that authorities and police visited Yelwata and reported a lower death toll of 45. However, locals fear the death toll exceeds 100 with witnesses describing widespread violence and destruction.
Resident Amineh Liapha Hir said many had died and houses were burned down while Christian Msuega recounted escaping the attack but losing relatives to the flames. Clashes between herders mainly Muslim Fulani and farmersmostly Christians over land and water access have fueled ongoing violence in the region. Last month, gunmen believed to be herders killed at least 20 people in Gwer West, Benue.
