3 Feared Dead as Gunmen Attack Settlement Area in Ukum, Benue
Kolough Clems Jnr
Residents of Ukum Local Government Area in Benue State were plunged into mourning on Sunday, July 21, 2024, following a deadly attack by unknown gunmen suspected to be local bandits. The assailants targeted the Samco Hotel area near the NUT Secretariat in Sankera, killing three individuals.
An eyewitness who narrowly escaped the attack reported that the suspected bandits, dressed in full military uniforms, arrived on three Bajaj motorcycles, each carrying three men. Upon arrival, they began shooting at patrons seated at a local joint, resulting in the deaths of two adults and a six-year-old boy.
Ukum Local Government has recently been plagued by banditry, with no effective solution in sight. The recurrent violence has left residents fearful and desperate for action.
Commenting on the security situation, Laz Gidi expressed frustration with the governor’s priorities: “On the area of security, I don’t think the governor is doing enough. What is the point of constructing roads and flyovers when there will be nobody to walk or drive on them? Dead bodies don’t need roads or flyovers. My candid advice is the governor should turn his full attention to this banditry and herdsmen issue.”
