The death toll from a series of violent attacks on rural communities in Benue State of Nigeria has risen to 69, following the discovery of 13 additional bodies on Monday. The latest casualties were recovered from bushlands around Ukum and Logo Local Government Areas, where the armed assaults took place last week.
Governor Hyacinth Alia had earlier confirmed 56 deaths after visiting the devastated communities on Sunday, April 20. The new figures were announced by Isaac Uzaan, Principal Special Assistant to the Governor on Media and Content Creation, who said that 12 bodies were found in Ukum and one in Logo.
The attacks, which hit Gbagir in Ukum and parts of Logo LGA on Thursday, occurred along the volatile Sankera axis. They came just two days after suspected herders launched deadly raids on Emichi, Odudaje, and Okpamaju in Otukpo LGA, southern Benue.
While touring the affected communities, Governor Alia described the situation as akin to warfare. “This is real war. There is no room for anyone to sleep with both eyes closed,” he said, mourning with the victims and calling for calm.
The governor has also appealed to the Federal Government for urgent intervention, warning that the violence is driving residents into displacement camps in areas like Zaki-Biam and Ugba.