The death toll of the ongoing gang war in Benue State has tragically risen to 25, with the recent addition of three more casualties in the Ayati community of Ukum Local Government Area.
The conflict initially erupted over the weekend, resulting in at least 22 fatalities in the Chito and Tyo Akosu communities of Ukum LGA. The violent clash ensued between two notorious criminal gangs known as the “Chain Gang” and “Full Fire” groups.
According to reports, the hostilities spilled over into the Ayati community on Sunday evening, claiming the lives of three suspected gang members. An anonymous source from the area provided insight, stating, “We have learned that the attack in Ayati, which claimed three lives on Sunday evening, was an extension of the fight that started over the weekend in Chito and Tyo Akosu. The situation has become chaotic, with our youth identities becoming increasingly blurred. We cannot distinguish who sympathizes with which group, and consequently, the violence has escalated, resulting in the senseless killings of human beings.”
Ezra Nyiyongo, the legislator representing Ukum State Constituency in the State House of Assembly, has condemned the bloodbath and called on the state government to employ enhanced strategies in resolving the crisis.
Highlighting the gravity of the situation, Nyiyongo stated, “We have witnessed recent abductions, including the abduction of the serving Commissioner for Information, Matthew Aboh. We have lost one of our honorable elder statesmen due to these frequent incidents. Today, we hear reports of 24 people killed, another day it’s 11. These horrifying occurrences continue to plague us.”
Expressing his concerns, Nyiyongo told Media Talk Africa, “As a government, we must take more decisive action. I am deeply saddened, and I believe the government is thoroughly examining the situation. As a legislator, I have reported this matter to my Speaker, and we will address it with the Governor. I trust that we will soon make progress. During our election campaigns, the Governor pledged to do whatever it takes to restore peace, even if it means adopting a more conciliatory approach towards these individuals.”
He further added, “This situation is disheartening. It is a shame that our own siblings, hailing from the same parents, are pointing firearms at each other. Who then can report these atrocities? This is the predicament we face. It is devastating; it is unbearable.”
