Over 30 people were killed in Ayati, a community in Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State, on Thursday night.
According to locals, the attack was carried out by local bandits in collaboration with Fulani herders.
A resident, who requested anonymity due to fear of reprisals, told reporters that the Ayongou factional group of bandits teamed up with the herders to launch the attack on the community.
Shima Ayati, a community leader and former governorship aspirant, also confirmed the incident, stating that more than 30 bodies had been recovered so far.
Ayati explained that the violence was triggered after some bandits reportedly received payment from herders to graze their animals on land within two council wards.
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According to him, the government intervened by sending security forces , who drove the herders away and burned their makeshift tents when the herders clashed with local farmers.
Angered by this, the herders allegedly joined forces with the bandits to attack the village, leading to the massacre.
He said, “what I heard is that some bandits received money from some herders to graze their animals in two council wards.
“As they were grazing, they came in conflict with farmers who ran to government. Government sent security who went and pursued the herders away during the process, they burnt their (herders) makeshift tents.
“They (herders) became angry as they claimed to have given money for the land so they went back to the bandits. So the herders joined hands with the bandits to attack the village and massacre people.
“We have already gathered over 30 corpses. They are still searching.”
Meanwhile, the Police Public Relations Officer for the State Command, Catherine Anene, confirmed the attack but stated that she was still awaiting details from officers on the ground.
“I’m aware there was an attack and I’m waiting for briefing from officers on ground please”, Anene said.
