30 bodies recovered after local militants clashed in Benue

Over 30 people on Thursday, were killed in Ayati village, Ukum local government area of Benue State.

This ugly development was disclosed by Mr Matthew Aboh, the Commissioner for Information, Culture, and Tourism on Friday during a press briefing in Makurdi.

He confirmed that adequate security operatives have been drafted to the trouble area to restore peace.

According to Aboh, 30 bodies had been recovered so far, with more likely to be found in the surrounding areas.

He attributed the violence to ongoing clashes between rival local militants in the state.

“Last night, I was informed of an attack by bandits in Ayati village. As of now, 30 individuals have been confirmed dead, and the search for additional bodies is ongoing. The final count may increase,” Aboh said.

He explained that the conflict is rooted in a power struggle between militias from different villages.

“One group is from Ayati, while their rivals come from Tine-nune, Mbatyem. This rivalry has led to continuous reprisals, with each side attacking the other’s stronghold,” Aboh explained.

A local resident who doesn’t want to be quoted because of security reasons revealed that the death toll could exceed 50.

Meanwhile, in response, SP Sewuese Anene, spokesman of Benue police command confirmed the attack and indicated that further updates would be provided pending additional information from the scene.

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