A series of attacks occurring over three days has left hundreds of residents displaced, seeking refuge in the local government headquarters.
Governor Hyacinth Alia of the affected state has pointed fingers at certain locals for allegedly inviting foreign herders, attributing them to the recent wave of violence across numerous communities.
In Zamfara State, bandits targeted Zurmi town, resulting in the tragic deaths of two police officers, as reported by Daily Trust. Another incident unfolded in Allawa community, Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State, where bandits set ablaze over 30 houses and numerous cattle.
In Yobe State, troops of the Joint Task Force (North-East) Operation Hadin Kai Sector 2 encountered and neutralized three ISWAP fighters in Damaturu.
The Nigerian Army reported that these terrorists were eliminated in Maltari village near Kukareta while extorting Zakat levies from locals, following a tip-off received by the troops.
In Benue State, ten lives were lost in the attacks on Ikobi Council Ward in Apa LGA. Residents fleeing the violence recounted nine deaths across Ibele, Ochumekwu, and Ijaha, with survivors seeking refuge at the Apa LGA headquarters.
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Confirming the attacks, Barr Eche Akpoko, chairman of Apa Development Association, condemned the violence and stated that additional casualties were discovered, bringing the total death toll to ten.
Akpoko provided a breakdown of casualties across affected villages.
While the police spokesperson for Benue Command, SP Catherine Anene, stated she lacked the report, Governor Hyacinth Alia accused some locals of inviting herders from Niger Republic, exacerbating the security situation.
In a statement, Donald Kumun, the Principal Special Assistant to the Governor on Print Media, relayed the governor’s concerns, emphasizing the need for unity in addressing security challenges and urging those with ill intentions to desist.
Governor Hyacinth Alia reassured the public of the security agencies’ readiness to safeguard everyone and appealed for cooperation in fostering peace and development in the state.
