Scores of residents were reportedly killed in an early morning attack on Sai Community in Mbajir Council Ward, Katsina-Ala Local Government Area of Benue State.
According to residents, armed assailants invaded the community at about 2 a.m. on Wednesday, moving from house to house and opening fire, forcing many people to flee into nearby bushes. A resident said youths recovered 10 bodies at daybreak, while several injured victims were taken to a hospital in Katsina-Ala for treatment.
The Benue State Police Command had not commented on the incident as of the time of reporting, with efforts to reach the Police Public Relations Officer proving unsuccessful.
Governor Hyacinth Alia condemned the attack, describing it as a “senseless,” “cowardly,” and “unacceptable” assault on innocent residents. In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Tersoo Kula, the governor directed security agencies to deploy additional personnel to Sai and neighbouring communities, launch a manhunt for the perpetrators, and ensure the safety of farmers.
Alia alleged the attack was carried out by terrorists masquerading as herdsmen and expressed condolences to the bereaved families and injured victims. He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to protecting lives and property, assuring residents that the violence would not deter efforts to restore peace and safeguard farming communities.
