‘I lost 20 family members during Benue massacre’ – Survivor
In a somber recounting of recent violence in Benue State, Michael Ajah, a resident of the Yelewata community in Guma Local Government Area, shared the tragic story of losing 20 family members during a late-night attack allegedly carried out by armed herdsmen.
The attack unfolded two nights ago, coinciding with a heavy downpour that had driven many residents indoors. In a deeply emotional interview with News Central TV, Ajah described the chaos and terror that erupted that night. “On that very day, rain started in the evening. I was sleeping. Around 10:20, we heard gunshots,” he recalled. “Before we could notice that something was happening, Fulani men entered this place.”
According to Ajah, the armed assailants opened fire indiscriminately, killing family members who had sought refuge in his home. He reported that 11 family members were killed inside his house, eight others in a nearby store, and many more fell victim in the surrounding area. “My whole family members that died that day, the day before yesterday, they were 20. That is my own family members alone,” he said, grief-stricken.
The aftermath of the attack left Ajah in ruins, both emotionally and materially. “They burnt my clothes, everything. All we are left with is the clothes we wear,” he lamented, highlighting the devastating loss of both life and livelihood.
This tragedy is part of a more significant wave of violence that has swept through Benue State, with reports indicating that over 200 people have been killed in similar attacks within the past week. The growing violence has sparked outrage nationwide and intensified calls for immediate government intervention.
Security analysts have long warned about the escalating threats posed by armed groups in Nigeria’s Middle Belt, and communities like Yelewata remain alarmingly vulnerable amid promises of enhanced security.
As a result of the ongoing violence, citizens, lawmakers, and civil society organizations are now calling on President Bola Tinubu’s administration to take swift and effective actions to stop the bloodshed and ensure justice for the victims.
On Monday, Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun arrived in Benue with a tactical team aimed at addressing the security crisis.
For Ajah and many other survivors of this horrific attack, the pain runs deep. “My family died in this house,” he said, gesturing towards the ashes of what was once a home filled with love. “Everyone is gone.”
Source: LEADERSHIP
