Violence has erupted in several parts of Katsina-Ala Local Government Area in Benue State, Nigeria, with reports indicating that a militia group led by Oraernyi, known as “Heavy,” and armed herders are responsible for a series of attacks and destruction of farmlands in Mbajir community. The crisis intensified last Sunday when large areas of farmland in Tse Akoso were allegedly set on fire and destroyed by the armed men, prompting villagers to flee their homes in fear.

Local sources claim that a prominent figure in the community, whose name has not been disclosed, is exacerbating the unrest by warning that anyone who exposes the activities of the armed herders will face severe consequences, including death. This has led to concerns that the threats are aimed at silencing victims and concealing the role of local collaborators in the escalating violence.

The militia group, allegedly in collaboration with the armed herders, has been carrying out attacks on settlements such as Tse Akoso and Danzulu, making it appear as though the herders are solely responsible for the raids. Two armed herders, identified as Bado and Musa, who participated in previous attacks, are reportedly being protected and moved around by the militia, operating from a new hideout between Tse Dunchi and Abony, along the Ukum boundary.

The ongoing assaults have raised concerns that villagers may be completely displaced from their ancestral homes as farmlands, including yam and cassava plots, continue to be destroyed across Mbajir. Community members are appealing to traditional rulers, local government chairmen of Ukum and Katsina-Ala, and the Benue State government to take urgent action to prevent further loss of life. They are also demanding the immediate evacuation of the armed herders from their villages to avert further bloodshed.

The Benue State government has faced challenges in addressing the ongoing conflict between herders and farmers in the region, which has led to numerous attacks and displacement of communities. The latest incident highlights the need for urgent intervention to prevent further violence and ensure the safety of villagers. Efforts to contact the Police Public Relations Officer, Udeme Edet, for comments were unsuccessful as of press time.