In recent attacks in the Benue State settlements of Arufu, Mchia, and Chembe, suspected herdsmen were believed to have killed at least seven people.
A number of others were also hurt in the incident, and more people are said to be missing.
According to reports, the marauders ambushed commuters on the Arufu-Chembe route on Sunday night and opened fire randomly at any passing motorists. They then attacked the Mchia settlement at night and murdered seven passengers.
Chief Joseph Anawah, a prominent member of the community, confirmed the incident and stated that the attack was unjustified.
He said: “Armed herdsmen in collaboration with some militia on Sunday shot at a commercial vehicle heading to Iorza where some passengers suffered injury. They also invaded Mchia where they murdered eight people.”
Chairman of the LGA, Rev. Jonathan Adagbe, who also confirmed the attack, said seven corpses had been recovered while several others were still missing.
He said: “It’s true that armed herders in collaboration with Jukun militias attacked my people yesterday (Sunday) at about 9 pm
“With the help of policemen, we were able to recover five corpses Sunday night while two corpses were recovered this morning (Monday morning). They also shot at a commercial vehicle where two people were injured.
“As I am talking to you now, the two people who sustained injuries have been taken to the hospital at Anyim but many people are still missing.”
