Suspected armed herdsmen have launched a series of coordinated attacks on Yogbo, the administrative centre of Mbagwen in Guma Local Government Area of Benue State, leaving residents in fear and uncertainty.
The attacks reportedly began five days ago, coinciding with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s visit to the state. According to eyewitnesses, the attackers stormed the community firing sporadically, prompting a swift response from security forces that forced them to retreat and averted a potential massacre.
However, tensions escalated the following day as the assailants reportedly returned, openly grazing cattle on farmlands at the outskirts of the town. Locals, fearing renewed violence, stayed indoors while their crops were trampled and destroyed.
Two days later, another incident occurred when armed men allegedly blocked the Yogbo–Gyungu Adze road and killed a traveller, further intensifying fears among residents.
The most recent attack took place on Sunday, June 23, 2025, when Tiv farmers from Yogbo were reportedly ambushed while fishing at River Shina. While full details of casualties remain unclear, locals say the repeated assaults appear to be part of a calculated attempt to overrun the community.
Tivta Samuel Aondohemba, a community member and activist, issued a plea for urgent intervention from the Chairman of Guma LGA, Hon. Orwough Maurice, and Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia. He also called on security agencies to step up their presence.
“The people of Yogbo are under siege,” Aondohemba said. “We need help now more than ever. Please help share this message to save lives.”
As of the time of this report, the Benue State Government and relevant security agencies have not issued any official response to the attacks.
