Gunmen Strike Benue on Easter, Leave 17 Dead, Many Injured

Tragedy struck a community in Benue State on Easter Sunday as suspected gunmen launched a deadly attack that left at least 17 people feared dead, according to multiple local and security sources.

Residents said the assailants stormed the rural settlement in the early hours of the day, opening fire on villagers and setting homes ablaze. The attack reportedly caused panic, forcing many to flee into nearby bushes for safety while others were caught in the violence.

Local authorities and eyewitnesses confirmed that the death toll could rise, as several people sustained injuries and some victims are still unaccounted for. Community leaders described the incident as one of the most devastating in recent months, particularly as it occurred during a period meant for religious celebration.

Security operatives have since been deployed to the area to restore calm, while efforts are ongoing to track down the perpetrators. Officials have yet to release a formal statement detailing the motive behind the attack, but such incidents in Benue are often linked to ongoing clashes between armed groups and local communities.

The state government condemned the killings, calling for urgent federal intervention to address the persistent insecurity in the region. Human rights groups have also urged authorities to prioritize the protection of vulnerable rural populations.

This latest incident adds to growing concerns over security in Nigeria’s Middle Belt, where communities continue to face repeated attacks despite increased military presence.