Benue Killings: Homeland of Retired Generals Ravaged by Armed Herdsmen

Displaced families from the Otobi community after the April 16 attacks.

 There is a serious security issue in the Benue South Senatorial District, also referred to as Zone C and primarily populated by Idoma people. Known as the residence of distinguished military veterans, this formerly peaceful area is currently under siege by suspected armed herdsmen who have killed people in multiple communities. Benue South has been the scene of violent invasions that have left hundreds displaced and dozens dead, despite its reputation as a military stronghold—home to leaders like Maj. Gen. Lawrence Onoja (Rtd), AVM Monday Morgan (Rtd), and Brig. Gen. David Mark (Rtd).

Targeted Areas

When five hunters were slain in the Okpomaju village of Okete Ward, Otukpo LGA, on February 7, the violence really started. Amedu Agaba, an APC councillor candidate, was one of the victims. According to witnesses, armed men broke into the village, started shooting randomly, and displaced many residents of nearby communities like Odudaje, Emichi, and Otada.

The situation worsened in Asa 2, Otukpo, on April 1, when a vicious nighttime raid claimed the lives of six people, including a nursing mother. Road blockades and massive protests were sparked by this incident throughout Otukpo. A Benue Links bus was attacked in Ikobi three days later, killing the driver and two passengers and capturing a number of others.

Then, on April 16, a tragedy struck the Otobi community, resulting in the destruction of property and the deaths of thirteen people. Surprisingly, on April 17, while security chiefs were in Otukpo, there was another round of coordinated attacks. The already traumatized population became even more terrified after these recent attacks, which also caused more injuries.

Leaders in the Community Speak Out

HRH John Eimonye, the Och’Otukpo Odu, expressed the annoyance of his people and urged locals to get ready for self-defense if security action is not taken right away.

Benue South senator Abba Moro denounced the ongoing violence and called on the federal government and security forces to take immediate action. David Mark, the former president of the Senate, demanded that the offenders be arrested right away and emphasized that impunity cannot be allowed.

In addition to confirming the arrest of three suspects and promising additional federal assistance, Governor Hyacinth Alia has reassured locals that there will be more security in the impacted areas.

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It's Time to Act

These coordinated attacks are not isolated occurrences; rather, they are a reflection of rural communities' vulnerability and a larger national security issue. To bring peace back to Benue South, the government must give priority to community policing, intelligence collection, and quick response tactics.

This resilient region's residents have had enough. Their demand is straightforward: peace, justice, and safety.

Residents are Protesting in Otukpo over increasing insecurity

People running In Panic

Armed Herdsmen