In a horrifying attack, armed herdsmen killed a woman, Mlumun Igbawua, and her adult son, Terkimbir Igbawua, on a rice farm in Tse-Nyibiam, Ngban, Nyiev Council Ward of Guma Local Government Area, Benue State.
The devastating incident occurred around noon on Saturday, August 2, sending shockwaves through the already terrorized local community, report says.
According to eyewitnesses, the victims were working on their farm when the assailants launched a surprise attack. They died instantly.
Even more disturbing, this same farmland was where Mlumun’s husband met his tragic end at the hands of suspected herdsmen just three months ago, during the planting season.
Meanwhile, the attackers also abducted another woman believed to be the wife of the slain man.
Local sources revealed she endured severe torture.
However, she miraculously escaped from captivity a rare and almost unbelievable feat.
“Honestly, we haven’t heard of anyone escaping from these attackers in recent times,” one resident said, visibly shaken.
Following the attack, the Chairman of Guma Local Government Area, Maurice Orwough, rushed to the scene.
He arrived with security personnel and ordered immediate medical attention for the rescued woman.
His media aide, Ernest Tortiv, confirmed the Chairman’s instructions, emphasizing that urgent care was a top priority.
In addition, the Chairman ordered the Local Government Security Secretary to release funds to cover burial expenses for the slain mother and son. Their burial was scheduled for Sunday.
Orwough also urged security operatives to strengthen surveillance and patrols in the area, especially around the Yelewata axis.
Furthermore, the local administration promised to push for a stronger security presence in the troubled region.
Chairman Orwough reassured residents that his government remains committed to restoring peace and stability across Guma LGA.
Despite the swift response from local authorities, tensions continue to rise in the area.
Residents expressed fear over the repeated attacks, many wondering who might be next.
Unfortunately, the Police Public Relations Officer for Benue State, DSP Udeme Edet, could not be reached for comment as of press time.
This latest killing adds to the growing list of violent incidents plaguing rural Benue communities, underscoring the urgent need for sustainable security reforms and justice for affected families.