Suspected terrorists launched coordinated attacks on the Otukpo-Nobi and Akpachi communities in Otukpo Local Government Area of Benue State, killing at least 16 people early Sunday morning.
The violent pre-dawn assaults triggered widespread protests and road blockades by angry residents demanding government intervention.
The killings happened between 3 a.m. and 4:30 a.m., while residents were asleep.
Those killed included women and children. Many others sustained injuries.
The protesters blocked major roads like the Enugu–Otukpo and Makurdi–Otukpo highways and marched to the palace of the Och’Idoma.
Governor Hyacinth Alia condemned the killings through his spokesperson, Tersoo Kula, labeling the assault barbaric.
He directed security forces to intensify patrols and track down the perpetrators.
Dr David Olofu, African Democratic Congress (ADC) senatorial candidate for Benue South Senatorial District, also urged government at all levels to strengthen security in vulnerable communities.
Olofu made the call on Sunday while reacting to the early morning attacks.
The senatorial candidate decried the recurring attacks on communities across the senatorial district and urged security agencies to intensify efforts to protect lives and ensure those responsible were brought to justice.
He described the attacks as deliberate acts of aggression and stressed the need for decisive action to secure communities and safeguard human lives.
The ADC candidate sympathised with families of the victims and prayed for the repose of those killed and for comfort for the bereaved.
Meanwhile, the Chairman of Otukpo Local Government, Mr Maxwell Ogiri, said the latest attack followed the killing of two farmers in Apachi village on Friday.
Ogiri told journalists that the bodies of the two victims were recovered and buried on Saturday after community members searched the area.
He said residents had remained vigilant and combed nearby bushes after the incident but were taken by surprise when gunmen attacked Otukpo-Nobi about 4a.m. on Sunday.
He said youths in the area protested the killings by taking the bodies of some victims to the palace of the Och’Idoma.
“We are trying to calm the youths so that they don’t take their anger out on innocent passers-by.
“When people are apprehensive and afraid, you cannot directly control their initial reactions,” he said.
