Crime

Gunmen Attack Benue Farmers: One Killed, Another Maimed as Residents Flee

Published by admin on January 13th, 2026.

Gunmen Attack Benue Farmers: One Killed, Another Maimed as Residents Flee

Gunmen

Gunmen struck farmers harvesting oranges in Tse Uyoo village, Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State, killing one man and injuring another by severing his hand, heightening fears of insecurity in rural communities.

The incident occurred around midday on Sunday, just a few kilometers past Tse Kpeesi along Adogo Road in Ugbaam Council Ward. A resident, Orbuter Abua Agule, reportedly lost his hand when attackers raided an orchard while grazing cattle in the area.

Residents say such attacks have intensified in recent weeks, forcing farmers to abandon their farmlands across Ukum, Logo, Guma, Otukpo, Agatu, and Kwande Local Government Areas. In a separate attack over the weekend, a farmer was killed in Otukpo LGA, and his motorcycle was set ablaze. Gunmen also targeted farmers in Adoka district of Otukpo, destroying harvested crops and chasing locals from their farms.

Further assaults were reported on Friday in Adogo village, Ugbaam Council Ward, affecting communities in Ukum and Logo LGAs. Villagers describe the attacks as unprovoked, alleging that assailants destroyed crops such as cassava to feed their cattle. Fearful for their safety, many farmers are fleeing their communities, raising concerns about potential food shortages.

Alfred Edoga, a resident of Ogobia community in Otukpo LGA, warned that continued attacks are preventing farmers from accessing their lands, which could worsen the region’s food security. Attempts to reach the police for comment were unsuccessful, as spokesperson DSP Udeme Edet did not respond to calls or messages.