Suspected Fulani herdsmen have launched another attack on Tse Jam town in Kwande Local Government Area (LGA) of Benue State, injuring several residents, mainly local farmers. The attack, which occurred on Tuesday afternoon, has forced thousands of residents to flee their homes, seeking refuge in neighboring areas.
The armed herders reportedly invaded the community, located just four kilometers from Jato Aka, catching many residents off guard. One of the victims, Aondona Adina, was attacked in his home by the suspected Fulani militia. A resident who escaped the attack described the chaos, stating, “Locals were seen running for their safety. The attackers came in the afternoon, catching many people off guard. We don’t even know the number of casualties yet.”
Escalating Violence and Community Panic
The attack is part of a consistent pattern of violence in the region, with suspected herdsmen frequently targeting farming communities. Reports indicate that unknown individuals had been sighted in Jato Aka days before the invasion, raising suspicions among locals.
A resident revealed that the suspected herders often send scouts ahead to gather intelligence before launching full-scale attacks. “The guards protecting the community quickly moved to interrogate them. Investigation has shown that herdsmen often use individuals by giving them money to scout areas and report back before they launch their attacks,” the resident said.
Community Security Measures
In response to the escalating violence, community security guards have been on high alert, questioning strangers and monitoring movements in the area. Last Saturday, guards arrested and handed over some suspicious individuals to the police after their responses during interrogation were deemed unconvincing.
However, the decision to involve the police did not sit well with some community youth, who believed the suspects should have been handled locally. A confrontation ensued, and the Nigerian Army, deployed in the area, reportedly opened fire, forcing residents to flee for safety.
Police Confirmation and Denial
The Benue State Police Command Spokesperson, SP Anene Sewuese, confirmed the attack on Jato Aka but denied that any suspects were handed over to the police. “Yes, there was an attack at Jato Aka about two weeks ago, and police officers were deployed to the area. However, fear of another possible attack has kept the people tense,” she stated.
Implications for Benue State
The attack on Tse Jam town highlights the ongoing security challenges in Benue State, where clashes between herders and farmers have become increasingly frequent and violent. The violence has displaced thousands of residents, disrupted agricultural activities, and heightened tensions in the region.
The situation underscores the need for urgent intervention by both state and federal authorities to address the root causes of the conflict and protect vulnerable communities. Failure to act could lead to further loss of lives, displacement, and economic hardship for the people of Benue State.
Calls for Action
Stakeholders are calling for increased security presence in affected areas, as well as measures to promote dialogue and reconciliation between herders and farmers. Community leaders have also emphasized the importance of intelligence gathering and proactive measures to prevent future attacks.
As the crisis continues, the plight of displaced residents remains a pressing concern, with many in dire need of humanitarian assistance. The government and relevant agencies must prioritize the safety and well-being of affected communities while working towards a lasting solution to the conflict.
