Fresh revelations have emerged following Saturday’s brutal attack on Yelewata community, located in Guma Local Government Area of Benue State, where scores of residents were killed and properties destroyed in what is now confirmed to be a coordinated and multi-directional assault by suspected armed herdsmen.

 

According to local sources, the attackers invaded the town in the early hours, splitting into three tactical groups to launch a synchronized assault from different directions. The attack began through Tse Ate, a bush path connecting Agugu Igbaakombo, and another route behind the community’s market square.

 

Residents reported that the gunmen fired intermittently and from different flanks, deliberately creating confusion and disarray among local vigilantes and police responders who tried to mount a defense. Despite initial efforts by youths and police personnel, they were quickly overwhelmed by the attackers’ numbers and strategic coordination.

 

In a statement by Comrade Joseph Apahar Joo, Media and Publicity Officer for the Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) unit in Benue State, further chilling details were disclosed.

He said:

 

> “The third group of attackers came through the rear, targeting shops where many residents were sleeping. Those who tried to escape were chased down and killed. Others couldn’t flee because the attackers had sprayed fuel on their doors and set the buildings ablaze.”

 

 

 

As a result, entire homes and shops were burnt, with some victims reportedly burnt alive. In addition to the tragic loss of life, stored food, farm produce, and essential goods were consumed by the fire.

 

Yelewata, known for its early resistance against external aggression, is said to have never experienced an attack of this magnitude, marking this tragedy as the worst in the community’s history.

 

The exact death toll remains unconfirmed by authorities, but local reports estimate at least 107 lives were lost, including women, children, the elderly, and security operatives.

 

As of the time of this report, no official statement has been issued by the Benue State Government, sparking further criticism from affected residents and stakeholders who demand urgent government response and enhanced security measures.