Unidentified gunmen have reportedly taken the lives of at least 11 individuals in an attack on several communities in Nyiev-ya, located in the Kwande Local Government Area of Benue State. The incident occurred on December 25, coinciding with Christmas celebrations among families. A community resident, who wished to remain anonymous, confirmed the assault to reporters on Thursday. They stated that a distress message indicated that Nyiev-ya was under siege. “The armed herders attacked this afternoon (December 25), invading Ubutu and GSS Anwase, resulting in killings and house burnings. Daniel Jam’s son was among those killed by the attackers.” “Please pray for our community for help from God and the government,” said a resident. During the violence in the Tse Azege community, another resident mentioned that an attack was also happening in Ityuluv, within the Nyiev-ya community. “If there’s anything the chairman or the government can do, it needs to be done quickly.” The situation in Kwande remains grim. “The terrorist herders have continued their assault on our people today, (December 26),” stated the President General of Mzough U Tiv Worldwide, Iorbee Ihagh, a resident of Kwande LGA. The community leader in the area verified the attack. He called it unprovoked and mentioned that multiple individuals were killed on Christmas Day. “It is reported that 11 people lost their lives in the attack on Kwande LGA yesterday.” The assault was without cause, as the assailants, who were herdsmen, invaded the communities and assaulted the residents. “Many individuals are still unaccounted for.” Leaders from the impacted communities have informed the police about the attack at the station,” he stated. Another local resident, Solomon Amande, from an affected community, verified that 11 individuals had died, attributing the violence to armed herders and militia groups. When reached for comment, Sewuese Anene, the Benue State Police Public Relations Officer, said she had no details regarding the incident.
