- Ayati village is increasingly turning into a hotbed of violent attacks and wanton killings in Ukum LGA.
Bandits wreaking havoc in Nigeria’s middle belt State of Benue have struck again.
At least thirty people were killed when the rampaging armed non-state actors attacked Ayati village in Ukum Local Government Area of the State.
The bandits carried out the heinous act on Thursday night, according to local sources.
Ayati village is increasingly turning into a hotbed of violent attacks and wanton killings in Ukum LGA.
The attack and killings of the innocent villagers were carried out by bandits belonging to the Ayongou factional group in collaboration with Fulanis, a local, who spoke in confidence with newsmen, said on Friday.
A community leader in the council and one-time governorship aspirant in the state, Shima Ayati also 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 in conflict with farmers who ran to government. The government sent security who went and pursued the herders away. During the process, they burnt 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.” Punch quoted him as saying
The state police command spokesperson, SP Catherine Anene, confirmed the incident but said she was yet to get details of the attack.
She said, “I’m aware there was an attack and I’m waiting for briefing from officers on ground.”
Violent protests broke out in Ukum local government few weeks ago over the killing of 11 people in the Ayati community.
Private and government properties in the council were destroy during the protest.