Benue Cult Clashes Claim Eight Lives in Fresh Wave of Violence

At least eight people have been killed following a surge of violence linked to rival cult groups across parts of Benue State, security sources and local residents confirmed on Friday.

The clashes, driven by a struggle for territorial control, reportedly began earlier in the week in Otukpo and Gboko, where three deaths were first recorded, before spreading on Wednesday to Makurdi, the State capital, and Jato Aka in Kwande Local Government Area.

In Makurdi’s Wurukum axis, three men were shot dead in separate late-night attacks. Witnesses said gunmen struck at different locations around the Area before fleeing.

The victims were identified by residents as Mr. Hundred, Martins Dagba (also known as “Wonder”), and Aondoaseer Yisa, popularly called “Poka.”

Earlier the same day in Jato Aka, rival factions commonly referred to as the Red and Black groups engaged in a violent confrontation that left two people dead and several others injured.

The injured were taken to nearby health facilities for treatment.

Police operatives deployed to the affected communities have made multiple arrests in connection with the violence.

The Benue State Police Command confirmed that eight suspects were taken into custody and that weapons, including a locally fabricated pistol, ammunition, machetes and axes, were recovered during the operations.

Authorities said more suspects remain at large and that efforts are ongoing to track them down.

Reacting to the killings, the Chairman of Makurdi Local Government Area, Joseph Keffi, condemned the attacks and expressed sympathy to the families of the victims.

He said the Council was working with Security Agencies to restore calm and urged residents to cooperate with law enforcement by reporting suspicious activities.

The latest incidents add to growing concerns over cult-related violence in Benue State, as residents of affected areas continue to grapple with fear and uncertainty amid the renewed hostilities.

Global Mirror News will provide updates as the investigation continues.