Terror Returns to Benue: Gunmen Strike With Deadly Force
Byline: IDNN Conflict & National Security Desk
In another devastating episode of Nigeria’s deepening security crisis, suspected herdsmen stormed multiple communities in Benue State Sunday night, killing no fewer than 33 civilians in simultaneous attacks on Gwer West and Apa local government areas.
The attackers, reportedly armed with sophisticated weapons, struck under the cover of darkness around 7–8 p.m., indiscriminately opening fire on residents and forcing hundreds to flee into nearby bushes.
“This was calculated, brutal, and coordinated,” a local leader told IDNN.
“No Help From Military Checkpoint Nearby” — Residents Cry Out
In Naka, the headquarters of Gwer West LGA, 17 people were massacred when the assailants stormed Tse-Antswam village. Shockingly, the attack occurred just a few kilometres from a military checkpoint.
Community leader Patrick Modoom confirmed that residents raised the alarm, but no response came from the military while the killings raged.
In Apa LGA’s Edikwu and Ankpali communities, another 16 residents were gunned down, adding to the body count in what is now being described as one of the deadliest herdsmen attacks in 2025.
“People are still missing. Many are hiding in forests. Others are taking shelter in overcrowded primary schools,” a witness said.
Survivors Recount Horror: “We Ran With Our Children Into the Bush”
Eyewitnesses shared chilling accounts of survival:
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Terna Abeva said gunmen appeared near the Earth Dam and began shooting. He escaped with his family into the bush.
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Igbabee Akange heard gunfire from the Makurdi Road and barely fled the advancing attackers.
Several sources said the herders arrived from the Naka–Makurdi axis, fired for nearly an hour, and disappeared before any form of security response materialized.
Gwer West Now “Fully Compromised” — Youths Demand Military Withdrawal
The Gwer West Youth Association has called for the immediate withdrawal of military troops from the area, alleging complicity and failure to protect villagers.
Youth leader M. T. Ugbede said the military presence has become “symbolic and ineffective,” arguing that communities now need localised security outfits to repel future attacks.
Police Deploy Tactical Unit, Begin Investigation
Benue Police PRO DSP Edet Edeme confirmed the incident and said the Commissioner of Police has deployed tactical squads to the affected areas.
He assured that investigations are ongoing and that the force is committed to restoring calm.
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