Insecurity Deepens: 144 Killed in Plateau and Benue Within Two Weeks as Herdsmen, Boko Haram Launch Deadly Attacks

At least 144 people have been killed in renewed waves of violence across Plateau and Benue states in the past 14 days, amid escalating attacks by suspected herdsmen and Boko Haram insurgents. The most recent incident occurred late Tuesday, claiming 13 lives and leaving dozens injured, while over 50 homes were destroyed.

Escalating Violence in Plateau and Benue
In Plateau State, 104 people were killed 52 in Bassa Local Government Area and another 52 in Bokkos by suspected armed herders. Meanwhile, Benue State recorded over 40 deaths, including three individuals ambushed aboard a Benue Links bus in Otukpo LGA on April 3, and five farmers killed in Gwer West and Gwer East LGAs on April 10.

On Tuesday, an attack on Otobi Akpa community near the Benue-Nasarawa border resulted in at least 13 fatalities. Eyewitnesses described how over 20 armed assailants invaded the area around 6:00 p.m., firing indiscriminately and setting homes ablaze. Many victims were reportedly butchered, with their remains left at the scene.

Local sources believe the attackers were reacting to anti-open grazing laws enacted in the state. The attack was especially devastating as local vigilantes were attending a burial in a nearby village, leaving the community vulnerable.

Boko Haram Strikes in Adamawa
While herdsmen wreak havoc in the North Central region, Boko Haram insurgents carried out another assault in Adamawa State. On Tuesday, they raided Banga and Larh communities in Hong LGA, killing seven people and leaving many missing. Explosives destroyed a police vehicle, and a local vigilante was killed in the blast.

“This is the fourth attack in the area this year,” said council chairman Waang Inuwa, who called for an urgent increase in military presence.

Government Response and Public Outcry
In response to the violence, Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang has imposed a ban on night grazing, restricted the movement of cattle by vehicle after 7:00 p.m., and prohibited motorcycle use between 7:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. These measures, effective April 16, aim to prevent further attacks and improve public safety.

Governor Mutfwang condemned the killings, describing them as a “systematic and premeditated campaign” to destabilize communities. He called for the reactivation of vigilante groups and announced plans to appoint a special peace envoy to coordinate grassroots consultations and intelligence gathering.

Peter Obi and Falana Demand Federal Action
Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi criticized President Bola Tinubu for remaining abroad amid the crisis. “In the two weeks you have been away, over 150 Nigerians have lost their lives,” Obi stated. He urged the president to return home and address the deteriorating security situation.

Human rights lawyer Femi Falana, SAN, echoed the call, criticizing the federal and state governments for failing to enforce grazing bans and urging immediate deployment of military forces to restore peace.

Northern Elders Forum Reacts
The Northern Elders Forum (NEF) described the killings as a national disgrace. In a statement, NEF spokesperson Prof. Abubakar Jika Jiddere lamented that Plateau once a symbol of peace and unity had become a hotspot for violence. NEF called for an independent investigation, massive security deployment, and adequate compensation for affected communities.

A Region in Fear
As security forces attempt to regain control, displaced residents in Benue and Plateau seek refuge in schools, churches, and public shelters. With no clear end in sight, communities remain on edge, demanding swift and decisive action to stem the tide of violence.