Another community in Benue State, Tse Jam town in the Kwande Local Government Area (LGA), has been attacked by suspected Fulani herdsmen.
According to SaharaReporters, the attack occurred on Tuesday afternoon, just four kilometers from Jato Aka.
A community source confirmed that the armed herders targeted local farmers, injuring several residents. One of the victims has been identified as Aondona Adina, who was attacked at his home by the suspected Fulani militia.
A resident who managed to escape the attack described the situation: “Locals were running for their lives. The attackers came in the afternoon, catching many people off guard. We still don’t know the full extent of the casualties.”
This attack follows recent reports from SaharaReporters about growing concerns in the Jato Aka community, which has experienced repeated invasions by suspected Fulani herdsmen. Thousands of residents have already fled their homes, seeking refuge in nearby areas due to the escalating violence.
A resident shared the fear that has gripped the community: “People are fleeing during attacks by Fulani herders. There is panic, and many have abandoned their homes.”
The pattern of attacks has been similar each time. Reports suggest that unknown individuals were spotted in Jato Aka days before the latest attack, raising suspicions among locals.
A resident explained that suspected herders often send people ahead to gather information before launching their attacks. “The guards in the community quickly questioned them. Our investigation revealed that herdsmen often use these individuals, giving them money to scout areas and report back before the attacks,” the resident said.
To combat these attacks, community security guards have been on high alert, questioning strangers in the area to understand their intentions. “When we confronted some strangers last Saturday, their answers were unconvincing. We later arrested them and handed them over to the police,” another source stated.
However, the move to turn the suspects over to the police sparked tension among local youths, who believed the suspects should have been dealt with by the community. This led to a confrontation, and reports indicate that the Nigerian Army, stationed in the area, opened fire, causing residents to flee for their safety.
In response to the ongoing crisis, Benue State Police Command Spokesperson, SP Anene Sewuese, confirmed the attacks on Jato Aka but denied that any suspects were handed over to the police. “Yes, there was an attack at Jato Aka about two weeks ago, and police officers were deployed to the area. However, the fear of another attack has left the people on edge,” she said.
