An attack by bandits has left over 30 people dead in Ayati village in the Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State, News About Nigeria reports.
This was disclosed to newsmen in the state on Friday.
According to the report, the incident occurred on Thursday night, when bandits and suspected armed herders unleashed terror on the village.
A resident of the community who spoke on the condition of anonymity stated that bandits belonging to the Ayongou factional group, in collaboration with Fulanis, attacked and killed innocent people Thursday night.
Also speaking, a community leader in the council and one-time governorship aspirant in the state, Shima Ayati, confirmed the attack and said that over 30 corpses have been recovered from the village.
“What I heard is that some bandits received money from some herders to graze their animals in two council wards.
“As they were grazing, they came into conflict with farmers who ran to the government. The government sent security, who went and pursued the herders away. During the process, they burned their (herders) makeshift tents.
“They (herders) became angry as they claimed to have given money for the land, so they went back to the bandits. The herders joined hands with the bandits to attack the village and massacre people.
“We have already gathered over 30 corpses. They are still searching,” he stated.
The spokesperson of the Benue State Police Command, SP Catherine Anene, confirmed the incident but said she was yet to get details of the attack.
“I’m aware there was an attack and I’m waiting for briefing from officers on ground,” she stated.
