Six people were killed in a tragic attack by suspected gunmen in Uzer village, Tombo ward, Gaambetiev LGA, Benue State, on Wednesday night.
The assailants struck around 8 p.m., as residents were relaxing in their compounds.
Eyewitnesses reported hearing sudden gunfire, which led to chaos. In the attack, six individuals, including Sir Matthew Tyôkighir, Mrs. Myangega, Ortamem Zwa Injo, Mr. Emmanuel Sanka, and Mrs. Justina Ashe, lost their lives. A woman and her child, who sustained injuries, later died at a local hospital.
Despite efforts to alert security personnel, the attackers escaped under the cover of darkness before their arrival.
Tombo ward, a farming community, has witnessed insecurity and herdsmen-related violence for over two decades, leaving the area largely deserted. Many residents live in fear, unable to return to their ancestral homes.
Community leader Chief Tyodue Aboh urged federal and state authorities to enhance security measures to enable displaced farmers to return to their farmlands.
The Logo Divisional Police Officer confirmed the incident and announced the commencement of an investigation.
According to The Nation, arrangements were being finalized for a mass burial for the victims.